RAM tests run before Windows loads, and MemTest86 reports errors that may point to faulty memory behind crashes, freezes, or corrupted data. It starts from a bootable USB drive and runs independently of the installed operating system.
Start the test from USB
MemTest86 boots from a USB drive, so the computer does not need to load Windows for the test to run. This keeps the memory check separate from Windows applications and drivers. The workflow is to prepare the bootable drive, start the computer from it, and let MemTest86 begin testing system RAM.
A graphical interface and mouse support are available after startup. MemTest86 supports UEFI, the firmware interface used on many modern PCs.
Run patterns across system memory
The test suite applies a range of algorithms and patterns to RAM to look for faults. Among its named tests are SIMD, row hammer, and DMA tests. MemTest86 supports DDR2, DDR3, DDR4 and DDR5 memory, along with low-power DDR, ECC, CDIMM, and CAMM2.
- Use the results to investigate unexplained system crashes, instability, or corrupted data.
- Errors include memory addresses that can help identify a faulty component or decode a DIMM or chip.
Read and save test results
MemTest86 displays results in its graphical interface and can generate HTML reports. Customizable reports and configuration-file automation are Pro features. For larger deployments, PXE network boot supports diskless testing across multiple target computers.
Pros
- Runs memory tests without loading Windows
- Includes SIMD, row hammer, and DMA test algorithms
- Reports can identify a faulty component from an error address
- Supports DDR, low-power DDR, ECC, and newer memory types
Cons
- Customizable reports and configuration-file automation require the Pro edition
System requirements: ARM64 and x64 · UEFI platform firmware · USB flash drive (>1 GB capacity)
Does MemTest86 run inside Windows?
No. It starts from a bootable USB drive and tests memory without loading an operating system.
What do MemTest86 errors indicate?
They can point to faulty RAM or a component identified from the reported error address.
Can MemTest86 test ECC memory?
Yes. ECC memory is among the supported memory types.
