Computer crashes, freezes, or random blue screens can often be caused by faulty RAM. Windows 11 includes a built-in tool called Windows Memory Diagnostic that helps you test your system memory for errors. Knowing how to check and interpret the results is key to identifying potential issues before they affect your workflow.

This guide walks you through running a memory test and viewing the results step by step.

Table of Contents

What Is Windows Memory Diagnostic?

Windows Memory Diagnostic is a free utility built into Windows that scans your RAM for problems. It performs a thorough check to detect:

Faulty memory modules
Corrupted data in memory
Potential causes of system instability

The tool is easy to use and does not require third-party software.

Step 1: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

Option 1: Using Search

Press Windows + S to open the search bar.
Type Windows Memory Diagnostic and select it.
Choose Restart now and check for problems.

Your computer will reboot, and the diagnostic tool will start scanning your memory automatically.

Option 2: Using Run Command

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type mdsched.exe and press Enter.
Select Restart now and check for problems.

During the test, your screen may display progress and any errors found. The computer will automatically restart once the test is complete.

Step 2: Access Memory Diagnostic Results

After your PC restarts, the test results may not always appear immediately. Here’s how to locate them:

Method 1: Using Event Viewer

Press Windows + X and select Event Viewer.
In the left pane, expand Windows Logs and click System.
In the right pane, click Find…
Type MemoryDiagnostics-Results and click Find Next.

You will see a report showing whether any memory errors were detected.

Method 2: Using PowerShell

Press Windows + S, type PowerShell, and run as administrator.
Enter the following command:

Press Enter to view the results, including the date, time, and any detected errors.

Step 3: Interpret the Results

No errors found: Your RAM is functioning properly.
Errors detected: Note the details and consider replacing the faulty module or consulting a hardware professional.

If errors appear, you may experience crashes, application failures, or slow performance.

Tips for Accurate Memory Testing

Close all programs before restarting for the diagnostic.
Allow the test to complete fully — partial scans might miss issues.
Run the test multiple times if intermittent issues occur.
If problems persist, test each RAM stick individually to pinpoint the faulty one.

Final Thoughts

Checking memory diagnostic results in Windows 11 is straightforward but crucial for maintaining system stability. By following this guide, you can identify memory issues early, ensure your PC runs smoothly, and prevent unexpected crashes or data loss.

If you want, I can also write a guide on fixing memory errors in Windows 11 after detecting them.

How to Check Memory Diagnostic Results in Windows 11: A Complete Guide