What is XMP-BOOT-FAIL?
XMP-BOOT-FAIL is a critical-severity system memory (RAM) problem. Memory cannot run at factory overclocked values. Typical causes include different modules in one board, poor quality CPU controller, frequency too high and dust in slot. Work through the steps below in order.
Common Causes
- Different modules in one board
- Poor quality CPU controller
- Frequency too high
- Dust in slot
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
-
1
Disable XMP profile in BIOS
Disable XMP profile in BIOS resolves the majority of XMP-BOOT-FAIL cases on its own, making it the logical starting point.
-
2
Clean the RAM contacts with a school eraser
Should the issue continue afterward, the remaining steps are there to cover the less common ram instability scenarios.
-
3
Update BIOS for better compatibility
For lingering XMP-BOOT-FAIL cases, "Update BIOS for better compatibility" is worth running through.
Commands & Diagnostics
mdsched.exe
wmic memorychip get capacity
Frequently Asked Questions
The leading cause of XMP-BOOT-FAIL is different modules in one board, though poor quality CPU controller, frequency too high and dust in slot also show up in our reports.
Try "Disable XMP profile in BIOS" first — it resolves most XMP-BOOT-FAIL cases on its own. Only work through the rest of the guide above if it comes back.
XMP-BOOT-FAIL is rated critical severity in our database. It's worth acting on quickly rather than letting it recur.
You shouldn't need to. Work through the guide above first — a reinstall is only worth considering if none of those steps help.
MemTest86 is strongly recommended if XMP-BOOT-FAIL occurs repeatedly. It runs overnight and tests all RAM slots independently. Even a few errors in MemTest indicate faulty RAM that should be replaced.
Still Need Help?
Search our full database of 535+ documented PC errors for more solutions and step-by-step repair guides.
Search Error Database