How to test your computer's RAM to detect problems?

Memory (RAM) is an essential component of your computer that stores the temporary data it needs to function. If your RAM is faulty, it can lead to various problems, such as slowdowns, crashes, and even data loss. Therefore, it's important to test your RAM regularly to ensure it's working properly.

Why test your RAM?

The main reason to test your computer's RAM is to diagnose and resolve stability and performance issues . If your computer crashes frequently, displays blue screens, or runs slowly, it could be due to faulty RAM.

It is also recommended to test your RAM when installing new RAM modules . It's not uncommon for manufacturers to send defective modules, and it's best to detect them early on to avoid future problems.

Finally, testing your RAM frequently can help prevent potential problems before they become critical. Faulty RAM can lead to data errors, frequent crashes, and a general decline in your computer's performance . If you're experiencing this issue, here's how to boost your PC's performance again !

Simplified technical details

To understand how to test RAM, it's important to first understand its basic operation. RAM is made up of tiny cells that store bits of data . These cells are arranged in rows and columns, creating a memory grid. When your computer needs to access data, it looks it up in the memory grid using its address.

Testing RAM with built-in tools

Fortunately, most operating systems have built-in tools that allow you to test your RAM.

Windows

Windows Memory Diagnostic : This tool is pre-installed on Windows Windows Memory Diagnostic " in the Start menu. It will perform a complete test of your RAM and inform you of any problems detected.

How to run the Windows memory diagnostic tool

Windows has a built-in memory diagnostic tool that allows you to test your RAM. This tool is available on Windows 10, Windows 11, and other recent versions of Windows.

To launch the Windowsmemory diagnostic tool, follow these steps:

• Click the " Start Windows taskbar .
• Search for " Windows Memory Diagnostic " and click on the corresponding option.

• Windows Memory Diagnostic window , click " Restart now and check for problems ".

• Your computer will restart and the Windows memory diagnostic tool will run before Windowsstarts.
• Let the Windows memory diagnostic tool run and analyze your RAM. This may take some time depending on the size of your RAM.

Once the analysis is complete, your computer will restart again and you will see a report on any RAM problems detected.

If the Windows memory diagnostic tool detects RAM errors, it is recommended to replace the faulty RAM sticks to resolve stability and performance issues.

macOS

Memory Checker Utility : This tool is built into macOS and can be launched by going to System Preferences > Memory > Check Memory. It will perform a quick test of your RAM and notify you of any problems detected.

Linux

Memtest86 : Memtest86 is a popular open-source memory testing tool that can be used on Windows , macOS, and Linux. It is considered one of the most comprehensive and reliable RAM testing tools available.

How do I run MemTest86?

MemTest86 is an advanced and reliable RAM testing tool. Unlike the Windowsmemory diagnostic tool, MemTest86 requires a specialized boot process from a USB drive or CD/DVD.

Here's how to use MemTest86 to test your RAM:

• Download MemTest86 from the official website

• Create a bootable USB drive or burn the ISO image to a CD/DVD.
• Restart your computer and access the boot menu. This varies depending on your computer manufacturer, but generally, you need to press a specific key (such as F12 or ESC) during startup to access the boot menu.

• Select the USB flash drive or CD/DVD drive containing MemTest86 as the boot device.
• MemTest86 will load and begin testing your RAM automatically. Let it run for a while to get accurate results.

Once the test is complete, MemTest86 will display a detailed report indicating whether any RAM errors were detected.
If MemTest86 detects RAM errors, you will need to replace the faulty modules to resolve the issues.

What should you do if a memory test finds errors?

If the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool or MemTest86 detects RAM errors, it's important to take steps to resolve the issue. Here are some steps to follow:

• Identify the faulty RAM modules. If you have multiple RAM modules installed, remove them one by one and run the memory test again to determine which one is faulty.
• Replace the faulty RAM modules with new ones. Make sure you buy modules compatible with your computer and that they meet the manufacturer's recommended specifications.
• Rerun the memory test to ensure the new memory modules are working correctly.

If you are not comfortable performing these steps yourself, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of an IT professional to help you resolve the RAM issue.

Testing RAM with third-party tools

In addition to the built-in tools, there are also several third-party tools you can use to test your RAM. These tools often offer additional features, such as the ability to test specific types of RAM or perform more in-depth tests.

Some popular third-party tools include:

• PassMark MemTest86 : A paid version of Memtest86 with additional features.
• GoldMemory : A free RAM testing tool that offers a variety of different tests.

• Hiren's Boot CD : A bootable boot CD that includes Memtest86 and other diagnostic tools.

Signs of RAM problems

If you experience any of the following signs, your RAM may be faulty:

• Slowdowns and sluggish performance
• Random crashes and restarts
• Blue Screens of Death (BSOD)
• File corruption
• Having trouble starting your computer

Conclusion

Regularly testing your RAM is an important way to ensure your computer is functioning properly. Using built-in tools or third-party tools, you can easily identify and resolve RAM issues before they cause major problems.