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Most BSODs aren’t caused by memory — here’s how to find the real problem fast.

How to Fix Blue Screen Crashes That Look Like Memory Problems

Many Windows blue screen errors mention terms like MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, ntfs.sys, or ntoskrnl.exe. These often look like RAM failures, but most of the time the real cause is software corruption, storage issues, or driver problems. This guide helps you diagnose and fix the most common causes before assuming hardware failure.

Good news: Most of these crashes can be fixed at home with a few safe steps.

Before You Begin

Back up important files if possible.
Plug in your laptop so it doesn’t shut down mid‑repair.
You’ll need administrator access to Windows.

Stop here if: Your system crashes constantly, you hear clicking/grinding from the drive, or Windows cannot stay running long enough to complete these steps. Contact us instead.

Step 1 — Repair Windows System Files

Corrupted system files can cause crashes that look like memory or hardware problems. Windows includes two built‑in repair tools: SFC and DISM.

1.1 Run System File Checker (SFC)

Right‑click the Start button → choose Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
Type: sfc /scannow and press Enter.

If it reports repairs, restart your computer afterward.

1.2 Run DISM

In the same admin window, type:

DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

Restart when finished.

Step 2 — Reset the Windows Paging File

The paging file is a hidden system file Windows uses as extra memory. If it becomes corrupted, it can trigger memory‑related blue screens even when your RAM is fine.

2.1 Turn Off the Paging File

Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, press Enter.
Go to Advanced → Performance → Settings.
Go to Advanced → Virtual Memory → Change.
Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size.
Select drive C:, choose No paging file, click Set.
Restart your computer.

2.2 Turn It Back On

Repeat the steps above to return to the Virtual Memory settings.
Check Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
If you normally use a paging file on both C: and another drive, make sure both drives are set to System managed size.
Click OK on all windows and restart your computer again.

Step 3 — Check SSD/NVMe Health

Many "memory‑looking” crashes are actually caused by a failing SSD or NVMe drive. You can check drive health using free tools.

3.1 Install a Drive Health Tool

Samsung → Samsung Magician
Western Digital → WD Dashboard
Crucial → Storage Executive
Any brand → CrystalDiskInfo

3.2 Check the SMART Status

Good → drive is likely healthy.
Caution or Bad → back up immediately and contact us.

Note: CHKDSK and Defrag were designed for old mechanical hard drives. They are not recommended for SSD/NVMe drives.

Step 4 — Update Drivers and BIOS

Out‑of‑date or corrupted drivers can cause blue screens. Updating them can stabilize your system.

4.1 Update Windows and Drivers

Run Windows Update.
Install the latest chipset and storage drivers from your laptop manufacturer.

4.2 Update BIOS (Advanced)

If you’re not comfortable updating BIOS, contact us first.

Step 5 — Test the RAM (Optional)

If all previous steps fail, then it’s time to test the RAM itself.

5.1 Use MemTest86

Download MemTest86.
Create a bootable USB.
Run at least 4 full passes.

If errors appear, RAM may be faulty.

When to Contact Us

Your system crashes too often to complete these steps.
Your SSD/NVMe shows Caution or Bad.
MemTest86 reports errors.
You’re unsure about any step.

Our philosophy: Even when the issue is software, we don’t leave you stranded. These steps help you fix the most common causes yourself. If the problem continues, we’re here to help.

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