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Guide to Finding and Changing Memory Dump Files Location in Windows 11

Memory dump files are important for diagnosing system errors and crashes in Windows 11. They contain detailed information about what was happening on your PC at the time of a crash.

Sometimes, you may want to change where these files are saved. This can be useful if your system drive is running low on space or if you prefer to organize your files differently.

In this guide, we will explain step-by-step how to find and change the location of memory dump files in Windows 11. Each step is broken down to be as simple as possible.

By the end, you will know how to manage your dump files effectively to help with troubleshooting or system management.

Quick Note

  • Make sure you have administrative rights on your Windows 11 PC, as changing system settings requires it.
  • Memory dump files can be large, so ensure the new location has enough free space.
  • Backup important data before making system changes, just in case.
  • Understanding what memory dumps contain is not necessary to change their location, but helpful if you plan to analyze them.

How to Find the Current Memory Dump Files Location

Before changing anything, it’s good to know where Windows currently saves the dump files. Here’s how to check:

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter. This opens the System Properties window.
  3. Click on the Advanced tab at the top.
  4. Under the Startup and Recovery section, click on the Settings button.
  5. In the new window, look for the Dump file field. It shows the current file path where dump files are saved.

Usually, the default path is %SystemRoot%MEMORY.DMP, which translates to C:WindowsMEMORY.DMP.

Why Change the Memory Dump Files Location?

Changing the location can help in several ways:

  • Save space on the system drive: Dump files can be large and take up significant space.
  • Organize files better: You might want to keep dump files in a dedicated folder or drive for easier access.
  • Use faster or larger storage: If you have a faster SSD or larger secondary drive, moving dump files there can be more efficient.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change the Dump Files Location

Follow these detailed steps carefully to change where Windows 11 saves memory dump files.

Step 1: Open System Properties

  1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter.
  3. System Properties window will open.

Step 2: Access Startup and Recovery Settings

  1. Click the Advanced tab.
  2. Under Startup and Recovery, click on Settings.

Step 3: Change the Dump File Path

  1. In the Write debugging information section, find the Dump file field.
  2. By default, it shows a path like %SystemRoot%MEMORY.DMP.
  3. Click inside this field and delete the existing path.
  4. Enter the full new path where you want the dump file saved.
    For example, D:CrashDumpsMEMORY.DMP if you want to save it on drive D in a folder named CrashDumps.
  5. Make sure the folder you specify already exists or create it beforehand.

Step 4: Save the Changes

  1. Click OK on the Startup and Recovery window.
  2. Click OK again on the System Properties window.

Windows will now save future memory dump files to the new location you specified.

Alternative Method: Using the Registry Editor (Advanced)

If you prefer, you can also change the dump file location by editing the Windows Registry. This method is for advanced users and should be done carefully.

  1. Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlCrashControl.
  3. Find the DumpFile entry on the right pane.
  4. Double-click DumpFile and enter the full path to the new dump file location.
  5. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
  6. Restart your computer for changes to take effect.

Warning: Incorrectly editing the registry can cause system issues. Always back up the registry before making changes.

FAQs

What are memory dump files used for?

They help diagnose system crashes by recording the state of your computer’s memory at the time of failure.

Can I delete memory dump files?

Yes, if you don’t need them for troubleshooting, but be aware they can help identify problems if your PC crashes.

Will changing the dump file location affect system performance?

Generally, no. It only changes where dump files are saved, not how your system operates normally.

What if the new location doesn’t work?

Make sure the folder exists and Windows has permission to write to it. Also, check that the path is correctly typed.

Can I move existing dump files to the new location?

Yes, but it’s not necessary. Windows will save new dump files to the new location you set.

When Nothing Works

If you face problems changing the dump file location or if your PC crashes and no dump files are created, try the following:

  • Double-check folder permissions to ensure Windows can write to the new location.
  • Run Windows Update to make sure your system is up to date.
  • Use the built-in System File Checker tool by opening Command Prompt as administrator and running sfc /scannow.
  • Consult the official Microsoft support website for more detailed troubleshooting steps: https://support.microsoft.com.

Conclusion

Managing memory dump files in Windows 11 is straightforward once you know where to look. Changing the dump file location helps you save space and organize your system better.

By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily find and change where these important files are stored. Remember to create the target folder first and ensure you have proper permissions.

Use the alternative registry method only if you are comfortable with advanced system settings, and always back up your data before making changes.

With this guide, you are well-equipped to handle memory dump files and improve your system troubleshooting experience.

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