Windows Memory Diagnostic

Easy of use is this tool's strong point. It's seamlessly integrated with the OS, so it can launch without modifying the boot path. It's reliable too.

The only complaint I have is how it reports the result. After you log in, it takes a few MINUTES before the result appears in the form of a Windows notification. It's faster to open Event Viewer and check the results in the System log. Look for events from the "MemoryDiagnostics-Results" source. Optimally, these events should read:

"The Windows Memory Diagnostic tested the computer's memory and detected no errors"

Oh, it'll tell you as it's running that your system will automatically reboot and report the results when you next log in.

But what really happens is that ... you'll log in. You won't see any results, the way you would if you'd just used System Restore. You'll sit there and wonder what happened with the memory test.

Then you'll open Event Viewer. And you'll find an entry under MemoryDiagnostic-Results. You'll breathe a sigh of relief, then click the sole entry that appears.

And what you'll see is:

"Windows Memory Diagnostic results"

That's it. That's what you'll see. There is nothing further.

"What are you talking about, you crazy person? Surely it tells you more!!!"

No, it won't. Stop yelling at me. It's not me. I didn't create this software. I just wasted an hour of my life running this "memory diagnostic" only to find nothing in the way of results.

Garbage.

Trash.

This is what happens when you don't have to care AT. ALL. about the user experience. Must be nice!