RAM Problem and How to Fix It

Memory problems are less common than other computer problems because memory sticks have no moving parts and thus fewer points of failure. However, due to this many RAM problems go undiagnosed. Memory usually will last longer than other computer components so manufacturers offer longer warranties for it than other parts. If you buy brand name memory it will likely have a lifetime warranty.

• When you first turn on your computer it runs fine, but as you go about your business you notice that its performance diminishes. By lunch time, websites take minutes to load and local programs run at a snail's pace. This type of gradual deterioration of PC performance, especially with memory-intensive programs, may be caused by a RAM problem.
• Your computer randomly restarts while you are in the middle of something or freeze sporadically. It may also reboot almost immediately upon opening the desktop. This could be a sign of faulty RAM.
• A blue screen with white text flashes before restarting. Blue-screen errors are annoying because you don't even have a chance to read the error message. Bad RAM is one thing that cause them.
• Files—particularly ones you frequently access and save—seem to be inexplicably corrupted. RAM issues can lead to this problem, which can worsen over time. The file structure of your hard drive may slowly degenerate and you will no longer be able to boot your machine.
• Your attempts to install a new program repeatedly fail for unknown reasons. You try to reinstall the operating system, but keep getting odd error messages.

There are certainly a variety of problems that could cause the issues above, but faulty RAM is an often-overlooked root cause of inexplicable issues. If you have one or a combination of the above problems you are likely facing a memory issue.

• Power surges can damage most computer components, including RAM. You should plug your computer and other expensive electronics into a surge protector. Make sure you know the difference between a surge protector and a power strip.
• Before you handle any parts in your computer, make sure you ground yourself by touching a piece of grounded metal to discharge static electricity. Electrostatic discharge can damage your computer.
• Excessive heat can cause RAM and other parts to wear out over time. Individual components can overheat, or heat from one component can cause damage to adjacent parts.
• If you have overclocked any part of your computer incorrectly, it may cause damage in the form of excess heat.
• Your memory module may have some fault that passed through quality control and worsened over time. This is the most likely cause behind a damaged RAM.

It is also possible that the memory module is fine, but one or more memory slots on your motherboard are defective, hindering the RAM's performance. The defect may even be so bad that it damages the memory stick.

• If the symptoms started after you recently added more memory, the new module could be faulty. This seems obvious, but any time a problem begins after making a change, first check to see if the change caused the problem.
• Your computer may produce multiple beeps or a continuous beep when you turn it on. These beeps can indicate many different problems, including being a symptom of bad RAM. Beep codes vary depending on the manufacturer of your BIOS. You can look up the beep codes for your specific computer to figure out its specific problem.
• If you are not comfortable fixing your computer yourself, I recommend taking your computer to a local repair store rather than a big retail store. Big stores are in the business of selling additional parts, not fixing problems.
• If you are an advanced user, there are diagnostic programs that can help you figure out if you have a memory problem. Your computer may have one pre-installed by the manufacturer or you can download a third-party program. The Windows Memory Diagnostic by Microsoft is also good if you suspect memory problems on a Windows PC.
• If the above programs indicate your memory sticks are functioning, but you still suspect a RAM problem or if you need to find which memory module is the problem, you can try removing the modules and placing them in different slots