SSD DRAM cache failure

What is SSD-DRAM-CACHE-FAIL?

SSD DRAM cache failure ranks as a high-severity storage drive (SSD/HDD) issue in our database. An SSD without a DRAM cache (DRAM-less) is extremely slow when writing large files or reading small files. It's also often linked to defragmenter running on SSD instead of TRIM. Work through the steps below in order.

Common Causes

• Cheap DRAM-less NVMe (QLC NAND without cache)
• Filled SLC cache layer
• Defragmenter running on SSD instead of TRIM

Step-by-Step Fix Guide

• 1
  Don't use defrag on SSD (TRIM only)

  The highest-success first step is Don't use defrag on SSD (TRIM only), which targets the most common trigger behind SSD-DRAM-CACHE-FAIL.

• 2
  Upgrade to SSD with DRAM cache (Samsung 990 Pro, WD SN850X)

  For cases that don't clear up right away, the remaining steps target less typical storage instability problems.

• 3
  Leave at least 10-15% free space

  Still seeing SSD-DRAM-CACHE-FAIL after that? "Leave at least 10-15% free space" is the next thing to check.

Commands & Diagnostics

Frequently Asked Questions