Back up important files if crashes are frequent; memory corruption can also damage files that are being saved. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.
Work through these checks
0 of 7 complete01Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
Defective RAM is the first cause Microsoft lists, and its remediation is Windows Memory Diagnostic.
- Press Win + R, type mdsched.exe and choose Restart now and check for problems.
- After the restart, open Event Viewer > Windows Logs > System and find the MemoryDiagnostics-Results entry.
No memory errors are found.
If it does not helpIf errors are found, go to step 3 to find the faulty module. A pass does not fully rule out RAM; a longer test such as MemTest86 is more thorough.
02Turn off memory overclocks
Memory running above its default speed can corrupt data even if each module is fine.
- In the BIOS, turn off XMP, EXPO or DOCP, or choose Load optimized defaults.
- Use the PC for a few days at default settings.
The crashes stop.
If it does not helpIf they stop, update the BIOS (step 4) and try the profile again.
03Test each RAM module
Testing one module at a time shows which module or slot is faulty.
- Switch off and unplug the PC, and leave only one RAM module installed.
- Run the memory test or use the PC normally, then repeat with each module and in a different slot.
Touch a metal part of the case before handling RAM.
You find the faulty module or slot.
If it does not helpSee the memory test errors guide on this site for more detail.
04Update the BIOS and device firmware
Microsoft lists firmware that corrupts memory as a cause; updates fix such bugs and improve memory stability.
- Install the latest BIOS/UEFI from your PC or motherboard maker.
- Update the SSD firmware with the drive maker's tool, and other device firmware the PC maker offers (for example Thunderbolt or docking station).
Do not switch off the PC during a firmware update.
Firmware is current and the crashes stop.
If it does not helpCheck BIOS settings after the update; they may be reset.
05Check whether it happens after sleep
Microsoft mentions firmware modifying memory across a power transition.
- Note whether crashes happen shortly after waking from sleep, hibernation or a Fast Startup boot.
- If so, turn off Fast Startup (Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable) and use Shut down or Restart instead of Sleep for a few days as a test.
You know whether power transitions trigger the crash.
If it does not helpIf they do, update the BIOS and chipset drivers and report the problem to the PC maker.
06Update or remove device drivers
A driver or device that sets up DMA transfers incorrectly can write to the wrong memory.
- Install the latest chipset, storage, network, Thunderbolt/USB4 and graphics drivers from the makers.
- Disconnect recently added expansion cards, docks and external devices, and test without them.
The crashes stop with updated drivers or without a device.
If it does not helpIf a device is responsible, contact its maker for a fixed driver or firmware.
07Replace the faulty part
Physical memory corruption keeps happening until the faulty hardware is replaced.
- Replace a RAM module that failed testing, ideally with a kit from your motherboard's supported memory list.
- If memory is soldered (many laptops), or crashes continue with new RAM, contact the PC maker for repair.
The PC runs without this stop code.
If it does not helpKeep the BIOS and drivers updated to avoid firmware-related corruption returning.
Possible causes
- Defective RAM
- Unstable memory overclock or XMP/EXPO profile
- A driver or device writing to the wrong memory during DMA
- Firmware corrupting memory around sleep, hibernation or startup
- Outdated BIOS
Useful Windows tools
These commands open Windows tools. Review changes before applying them.
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