How to Check the Health of Your Memory on Windows 10
It’s pretty important to keep an eye on your RAM, especially if Windows 10 starts running sluggish or acting a bit quirky. Luckily, Windows has a handy built-in tool called the Windows Memory Diagnostic. It might not sound exciting, but it’s essential for spotting potential issues before they cause bigger headaches. When you run this tool, your PC will restart and carry out some tests. Once it’s finished, you can review the results in the Event Viewer—think of it as your PC’s report card for memory health—to see if everything’s running smoothly or if it’s time to consider replacing some RAM sticks.
How to Open the Memory Diagnostic Tool
Start by clicking on the Start Menu and typing “Windows Memory Diagnostic.” When it appears, simply click to open it. Alternatively, press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, then press Enter. It’s built right into Windows, so no extra downloads needed. It’s like having a mini mechanic right inside your OS ready to perform a health check.
Running the Memory Test
Select the option to restart immediately and run the test. Get ready—once you select that, your PC will restart and start testing your memory. The process typically takes around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your hardware. For a deeper check, click on the Advanced button to choose different test levels, from Basic to Extended. The Extended test takes longer but is more thorough—definitely the way to go if you suspect a problem.
Waiting for the Results
During the restart, Windows Memory Diagnostic runs its tests. Sometimes the screen might go black for a bit, and it might seem like your PC has frozen—that’s normal. Just be patient. Once it’s done, Windows will boot back into your system. If any issues are found, you’ll get a notification on the screen. Fingers crossed it’s all clear!
How to Check Your Results in Event Viewer
The fun part—checking what the diagnostic found. Search for “Event Viewer” from the Start Menu or press Win + X and select it from the menu. Think of Event Viewer as your PC’s diary, recording all sorts of system events, including the memory test results.
Locating the Memory Diagnostics Report
Navigate to Windows Logs > System and look for the latest entry called “MemoryDiagnostics-Results.” To save time, use the Find… feature in Event Viewer by pressing Ctrl + F and typing “MemoryDiagnostics-Results” to jump straight to it.
This entry provides the diagnosis on your RAM’s condition. Don’t skip this step—it’s crucial. If issues are identified, it might be time to replace some sticks. If all clear, relax—you’re good to go.
Tips for Running Memory Checks in Windows 10
Running these checks regularly can catch problems early, before they cause crashes or data loss. Also, it’s wise to back up important files just in case something wobbles—better safe than sorry!
FAQs About Windows Memory Diagnostic
What does this tool actually do?
It scans your RAM for errors, helping you identify problems before they cause serious trouble. Since it’s built into Windows 10, you don’t need any extra software.
How long does it usually take?
Plan for about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your RAM size and the level of testing you choose. If it’s running particularly slow, try a quicker, less intensive test next time.
What if it finds errors?
If errors are flagged, consider replacing the problematic RAM module. Running multiple tests can help confirm the results. If you’re not confident fiddling with hardware, it’s a good idea to get a professional to take a look.
Can I use my PC while it’s testing?
Nope. The test requires a restart, so you’ll need to let it do its thing without interruption. It’s best to schedule this during a quiet time or overnight.
Is it safe to run?
Absolutely. Since it’s a native Windows feature designed for this purpose, it won’t risk your hardware or data. Running regular diagnostics is a smart move for system maintenance.
Wrapping It Up
- Open the Windows Memory Diagnostic—either through the Start Menu or by running
mdsched.exe. - Choose to restart your PC and run the memory check.
- Let it do its thing during boot-up—just sit back and wait.
- After Windows restarts, open Event Viewer via Win + X > Event Viewer.
- Look for “Memory Diagnostics Results” in the System log. Use Find… with Ctrl + F if needed.
Running regular memory health checks can help keep your system stable and running smoothly. Windows Memory Diagnostic makes it pretty straightforward—think of it as giving your PC a check-up. It might be a bit inconvenient now, but catching small issues early can save you a lot of headaches (and data loss) later on. Keep on top of it, and your system will thank you.
Ultimately, if it helps someone avoid pulling out their hair over a memory error, then it’s a win in my book.