Windows 11 to Implement Proactive Memory Diagnostics at Reboot for Identifying Memory Issues

With the new memory diagnostic scan feature, users can determine whether their system crashes stemmed from memory-related issues, thereby simplifying the troubleshooting process for sudden system failures.

Microsoft Enhances Windows 11 with Proactive Memory Diagnostics to Address BSODs and Unexpected Restarts

The occurrence of unexpected crashes in Windows can be frustrating and puzzling. Memory-related errors, often manifesting as the notorious Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), are frequent culprits but can arise from a myriad of causes—including memory instability, defective RAM, incompatible memory modules, improper XMP/EXPO overclocking settings, and even corrupt drivers.

Windows Memory Diagnostics prompt with message reading 'Memory scan recommended.' — Image Credit: Windows

To enhance user understanding and troubleshooting capabilities, Microsoft is rolling out a feature called “Proactive Memory Diagnostics”during the reboot process of Windows 11 following an unexpected crash. While the Windows Memory Diagnostics tool has existed for some time, this new integration streamlines access, eliminating the need for users to manually initiate the tool—assuming they know of its existence.

This new functionality is set to debut in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.6982 (in the Dev Channel) but will not be available for Arm64 systems, as highlighted in the latest official communication.

When a crash occurs, the Memory Diagnostics scan activates during the next system reboot, which typically requires around five minutes to complete before the OS loads fully. This diagnostic effort aims to ascertain any connections between system crashes and RAM malfunctions. By gathering insights during this early phase, Microsoft hopes to clarify which Windows crash codes are directly associated with memory corruption issues. All BSOD occurrences will now be flagged as potentially memory-related, prompting the scan feature.

Windows Memory Diagnostic interface with options to restart now for a memory check and check for problems at the next boot. — Image Credit: wccftech.com

As the feature evolves, it is anticipated that it will provide deeper insights into whether a crash is attributable to memory problems. Nevertheless, users can continue to make use of Windows Memory Diagnostics, a tool available across preceding operating system versions, including Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, and even Windows Vista.

This tool presents users with two distinct options: Restart now and check for problems or Check for problems the next time I start my computer. The first option initiates an immediate memory test prior to launching Windows, while the second schedules the test for the next reboot.

For more information, you can refer to the official announcement via Windows.

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