memtest86.exe

What is memtest86.exe?

memtest86.exe is the Windows launcher for MemTest86, a comprehensive RAM diagnostic suite used to detect faulty memory modules. When launched from Windows, it prepares a battery of memory tests and may prompt for a reboot to boot into MemTest86’s dedicated test environment. It’s commonly used by technicians to verify RAM stability.

MemTest86 runs patterns and stress tests across RAM to uncover errors. The Windows launcher starts the process, then reboots the system to run tests outside the operating system, reporting failures as bit errors or parity issues.

Types of MemTest86 Processes

• Launcher Process: memtest86.exe starts the test and manages boot prompts from Windows
• Boot Environment: The dedicated MemTest86 test environment runs outside Windows during the actual RAM tests
• Test Modules: Memory pattern tests and error reporting routines executed during the test pass
• Results Reporter: Conveys detected errors and pass/fail status after tests complete

Is memtest86.exe Safe?

Yes, memtest86.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from PassMark Software downloaded from official sources.

Is memtest86.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real memtest86.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names. Always verify the file location and signature.

How to Tell if memtest86.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\MemTest86\memtest86.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\MemTest86\memtest86.exe. Any memtest86.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click memtest86.exe in Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show a signature from "PassMark Software".
3. Resource Usage: During testing, CPU usage may spike; memory usage scales with RAM size. No unusual network activity should occur.
4. Behavior: MemTest86 typically prompts for a reboot to run tests and does not continuously run in the background.

Why Is memtest86.exe Running on My PC?

MemTest86.exe runs to diagnose RAM health and stability. Depending on how you initiated it, the tool may start a boot-time RAM test or manage a Windows launcher sequence to prepare for testing.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Memory Diagnostics: You launched memtest86.exe to start RAM tests while the system is running in Windows, or to prepare for a reboot into the test environment.
• Boot-Time Diagnostics: MemTest86 frequently requires reboot to load a dedicated testing environment that directly accesses memory without OS interference.
• Overclock Stability Checks: Users run MemTest86 after overclocking to validate RAM stability under stress and identify faulty modules.
• Hardware Fault Isolation: The tool helps isolate RAM faults by running multiple memory patterns and detecting errors across banks.
• Maintenance or Scheduling: Some systems or IT maintenance schedules include MemTest86 runs to verify memory as part of routine checks.

Can I Disable or Remove memtest86.exe?

Yes, you can disable memtest86.exe. It’s a diagnostic tool, not essential for Windows operation. Stop tests, unplug boot media, and uninstall if desired.

How to Stop memtest86.exe

• End From Windows: If memtest86.exe is running in Windows, use Task Manager to End Task or close the program window.
• Stop Boot Diagnostics: Remove MemTest86 USB/DVD and disable USB boot in BIOS/UEFI to prevent automatic boot into the test environment.
• Disable Scheduling: Check Task Scheduler or maintenance tools for any MemTest86 tasks and disable them.
• Uninstall: Open Settings > Apps > MemTest86 (or the installer entry) > Uninstall.
• Restore Boot Order: Configure BIOS/UEFI to prioritize Windows Boot Manager and save changes.

How to Uninstall MemTest86

• ✔ Windows Settings > Apps > MemTest86 > Uninstall
• ✔ Run the MemTest86 installer again and choose Uninstall, if offered
• ✔ Delete bootable USB/DVD if used for MemTest86 tests
• ✔ Delete residual files: C:\Program Files\MemTest86 and C:\Program Files (x86)\MemTest86
• ✔ Reboot the system

Common Problems: Memory Diagnostics Delays or Errors

If memtest86.exe reports issues or runs slowly, use these causes and solutions to troubleshoot RAM health and test behavior.

Common Causes & Solutions

• Too soon after startup or insufficient power: Ensure stable power and let the system warm up; rerun tests after a clean boot.
• Defective RAM modules: If errors persist, reseat modules, test one module at a time, and replace faulty sticks.
• Test running while overheating: Improve cooling, clean vents, and reduce overclock during tests.
• Incorrect test settings or too many passes: Use MemTest86 defaults or reduce passes to identify instability while preserving time.
• Boot media corruption: Recreate MemTest86 boot media from the official ISO/installer image and verify integrity.
• BIOS/UEFI incompatibilities: Update BIOS/UEFI firmware and ensure memory settings are stable (XMP off if needed).

Related Processes