How to Check Your Computer’s Memory
A simple test for one of the trickiest faults.
Faulty memory causes crashes that seem to have no pattern. Windows has a memory test built in, and it is easy to run.
Step by step
- Save your work and close your programs.
- Press the Windows key, type Windows Memory Diagnostic and open it.
- Choose Restart now and check for problems.
- The computer restarts and tests the memory. This takes ten to twenty minutes.
- When Windows starts again, the result appears as a notification.
What the result means
- No memory errors: the memory is fine, and the crashes have another cause.
- Errors found: a memory module is faulty. See memory repair and upgrade.
- The test will not run or freezes: tell us; that is a clue in itself.
Not sure? Call 020 7237 6805. We are happy to talk it through, and the assessment is free.
Questions and answers
Will the test delete anything?
No. It only reads and writes test patterns to the memory.
I missed the result. Can I see it again?
Run the test again. It is the quickest way.
Can I replace memory myself?
On many desktops, yes. On laptops it varies. We are happy to do it for you.
More guides
- Check your Computer Before You Call
- Check your Hard Drive or SSD
- Check If your Computer Is Overheating
- Check your Laptop Battery and Charger
- Check your Internet and Wi-Fi
- Check your Computer for Viruses
- Back Up your Files Before a Repair
Let us take a look
The assessment is free, the price is fixed before we start, and every repair carries a 3-month warranty. Call 020 7237 6805, or tell us what is wrong and a technician will reply.