Windows 11 Memory Diagnostic is a useful tool designed to check your computer’s memory (RAM) for errors. Sometimes, users run this tool but find that the results do not appear after the test completes. This can be confusing and frustrating, especially when you want to verify if your RAM is causing system issues.
This article will guide you through simple, clear steps to fix the problem of Windows 11 Memory Diagnostic not showing results. Each step is explained in a basic way to help even beginners understand and apply the solution.
By following these instructions, you can ensure the memory test results are properly displayed, helping you diagnose your PC’s health more effectively. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.
These fixes are arranged from easiest to more advanced, so you can try them in order without missing anything important.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before starting the troubleshooting, make sure of the following:
- Run Memory Diagnostic as Administrator: Running the tool with admin rights ensures it has the necessary permissions to function properly.
- Wait for the Test to Complete: The tool runs during system restart, so allow enough time for it to finish before checking results.
- Check Event Viewer: Memory Diagnostic results are stored in Windows Event Viewer, not displayed automatically, so make sure you know where to look.
- Restart Your PC: Sometimes a simple restart fixes minor glitches related to the tool.
Step 1: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic with Correct Permissions
To ensure the Memory Diagnostic tool works properly, you need to run it as an administrator. Here’s how:
- Press
Windows + Sto open the search bar. - Type Windows Memory Diagnostic.
- Right-click the result and choose Run as administrator.
- Click Restart now and check for problems.
Running as admin gives the tool full access to system resources. Without these rights, the test may not complete properly or results may not be saved.
Step 2: Check the Event Viewer for Memory Diagnostic Results
Windows Memory Diagnostic stores its results in the Event Viewer rather than showing them automatically after reboot. To see results, follow these steps:
- Press
Windows + Xand select Event Viewer. - In Event Viewer, expand Windows Logs on the left panel.
- Click on System.
- On the right side, click Find… and type
MemoryDiagnosticthen hitEnter. - Look for events from MemoryDiagnostics-Results. Double-clicking them will show detailed test results.
This step is important because many users expect results to pop up on screen, but Windows saves them in logs instead.
Step 3: Make Sure Your PC Is Fully Restarting
Memory Diagnostic runs during reboot, so if your PC doesn’t fully restart, the test may not run properly. To ensure a full restart:
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- Avoid using Sleep or Hibernate modes, as these may interrupt the test.
- If your PC boots quickly, try disabling Fast Startup temporarily:
To disable Fast Startup:
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) and save changes.
- Restart your PC and run the Memory Diagnostic again.
Fast Startup can sometimes prevent the diagnostic tool from running properly because it does not perform a full reboot.
Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Run Memory Diagnostic
If the normal method doesn’t work, you can run the Memory Diagnostic tool via Command Prompt. This method ensures the command is executed correctly.
- Press
Windows + S, typecmd. - Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press
Enter:
mdsched.exe
You will see a prompt asking to restart now or schedule the test for next reboot. Choose Restart now.
This method is useful if the shortcut or menu option is not working correctly.
Step 5: Update Your Windows 11 System
Sometimes, bugs in Windows can cause issues with tools like the Memory Diagnostic. Keeping your system updated can fix these bugs.
- Press
Windows + Ito open Settings. - Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Restart your PC and try running the Memory Diagnostic again.
Updating ensures your system has the latest fixes and improvements.
Alternative Method: Use Third-Party Memory Testing Tools
If Windows Memory Diagnostic still fails to show results, you can try third-party tools like MemTest86. These tools often provide more detailed diagnostics and run outside of Windows.
MemTest86 runs from a bootable USB drive and tests your RAM independently. This method is more advanced but useful if built-in tools don’t work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why don’t the Memory Diagnostic results show automatically?
Windows stores the results in the Event Viewer, so you need to check there manually. The tool does not display results on-screen after the test.
How long does the Memory Diagnostic test take?
The time varies depending on your RAM size and speed, usually between 5 to 30 minutes.
What if the test finds errors?
If errors are detected, it means your RAM may be faulty and might need replacement to avoid system crashes or data loss.
Can I run the Memory Diagnostic while using the PC?
No. The test runs during reboot, so you must restart your PC and let the tool run before Windows loads.
Is disabling Fast Startup safe?
Yes, but it may increase boot time slightly. You can re-enable it after running the test.
When Nothing Works: Final Options
If you have tried all the steps above and still cannot see the Memory Diagnostic results, consider the following:
- Reset or Repair Windows: Use Windows Recovery options to repair system files that may be corrupted.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for personalized help.
- Use Professional Help: Consult a certified technician to diagnose hardware issues.
These steps are last-resort options if software solutions do not work.
Conclusion
Windows 11 Memory Diagnostic is a valuable tool to check RAM health, but its results may not show automatically. By running the tool as administrator, checking Event Viewer, ensuring full restarts, and disabling Fast Startup, you can typically access the test results without problems.
Using the Command Prompt method and keeping Windows updated also help fix common glitches. If these do not work, third-party tools like MemTest86 provide advanced testing options.
Remember, understanding where the results are stored and how the tool works is key to effectively using Windows Memory Diagnostic. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be able to identify memory issues on your Windows 11 PC with confidence.