Windows includes a built-in Memory Diagnostic tool that lets users check their RAM for faults without needing a technician, which can be useful given that memory problems often cause crashes, slowdowns and the "Blue Screen of Death". Since RAM handles data the processor needs quick access to, testing it directly can help identify whether hardware faults, rather than software issues, are behind performance problems.

The tool can be launched by searching "Windows Memory Diagnostic" in the Start Menu or by running "mdsched.exe", after which the PC restarts and tests memory outside the normal Windows environment by repeatedly writing and reading data to check for errors. Users can press F1 during the test to choose between Basic, Standard and Extended modes, and can set the test to repeat up to 15 times for a more thorough check. Once complete, the computer restarts normally, and results — which don't always display automatically — can be found via the Windows Event Viewer by filtering the System log for "MemoryDiagnostics-Results".