Common Signs & Symptoms that Your RAM Is About to Fail

Published 2023-01-17

Most computer accessories and parts last a very long time if you take good care of them. But eventually, electronic components break due to their fragile nature, and nothing is more prone to this than the RAM.

RAM is most used because it determines how many applications can run efficiently at once. Hence its chances of failing are more compared to other parts. Operating systems and web browsers are generally the most significant RAM consumers. However, the complexity of software also consumes more RAM. This makes keeping a check essential. In this post, we will learn about the signs and symptoms of bad RAM.

Also Read: How To Reduce RAM Usage On Windows PC

Signs and Symptoms of Failing or About To Fail RAM

1. Decreased Performance

If your computer starts up and runs flawlessly, but as you use it more and more, the slower it gets, there may be a problem. The issue will be particularly evident in memory-demanding applications like Photoshop, challenging video games, and web browsers. In fact, a failing RAM is not the issue; a misbehaving program could use too much CPU power or leak memory from your computer. If you can’t identify the reason for the performance decline, evaluate your system utilization, which might tell the RAM’s condition.

Restarting your computer without starting any software is one test you can employ. It may be time to look for new RAM modules if the same issue persists even while no apps are open.

Also Read: How to Check Ram Size, Speed, and Type in Windows 11/10

2. Random Accidents

Similar to the point made about speed decline, simply because your computer occasionally crashes does not signify that your RAM is broken. It does suggest that there’s a chance it’s flawed.

This is especially true if the crashes do not occur consistently. For instance, if you get the Blue Screen of Death when attempting to open a particular application, the software will be blamed on your hardware. But if you discover that the crashes happen abruptly and without warning, your RAM might be to blame.

Additionally, your computer can reset as soon as the desktop appears or crash each time you try to install something new.

3. Failure To Load The Video Card

It’s a given that your computer will beep loudly when it turns on. It means that your device’s video and media hardware has been correctly identified and started. It’s not loaded if you don’t hear the beep; this could be due to poor RAM. As the operating system tries to boot, a warning message will also appear on the screen. Again, if viewed in isolation, it’s not an absolute declaration of RAM failure. The video card itself might be the issue.

Also Read: 8 Best RAM Drive Software You Must Use

4. Invalid Data Files

Files you often access and utilize can be corrupted and unable to be opened out of the blue. In addition to being a reminder of the value of routine backups, it is another unmistakable indication that your RAM is nearing its limit. RAM is likely to blame if corrupted files keep appearing and the issue worsens over time. You won’t be able to boot your computer because your hard drive’s structure is deteriorating due to faulty RAM.

Also Read: How To Clear Memory and Boost RAM on Windows

Inaccurate Display of System RAM

When using Windows, right-click the Start button and select System > About. An overview of your computer’s critical metrics will be displayed, including the theoretical quantity of installed RAM. Bad RAM may be the cause of inaccurate data presentation on your system. Does this amount match the recommended amount for your machine? If you need more clarification, look up the product number of your gadget on Google.

Also Read: How To Fix High CPU And RAM Usage By MRT.exe

How to Determine If Your RAM Is Defective

As hinted several times, having one of the above symptoms does not necessarily indicate a RAM issue. Numerous additional factors could be at play, such as an inadequate power supply, high temperatures, spyware or computer viruses, a botched operating system installation, or another flawed piece of hardware.

A built-in memory diagnostic tool is included with Windows. Hit Windows Key + R, enter mdsched, and press Enter to launch it. Your computer will need to restart. After doing a few tests, it will automatically restart and take you back to your desktop. Any issues discovered will be shown in a taskbar notification.

Memtest is an alternative that you can try.

Also Read: New Malware Hiding In Your Graphics Card VRAM

The Final Word

Wait to buy new RAM for your computer, even if you’re sure your system frequently exhibits RAM breakdown symptoms. First, use the above-described techniques to check your RAM. If your RAM has degraded, there is just one fix. Change it. You should visit a specialist with your computer to prevent further issues. But if you know enough about technology, you can change the RAM modules yourself.

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