How to Stabilize Vista and Run a Memory Test

Step1

Press your Start button (the Windows icon in the lower left corner of your screen) to open up the options menu.

Step2

In the text box that says "Start Search", type in memory. This should immediately bring up a link to the Memory Diagnostics Tool Click on it (or just hit ENTER).

Step3

Your computer will ask you if you want to run the test now or later. NOW means an immediate reboot. LATER means the test will start up the next time you restart your computer.

Step4

The diagnostic test will run in normal mode on the next start-up, which is recommended. However, you can press F1 to access advanced options, if you're that sort of user.

Step5

Be patient. The test takes quite a few minutes to run, and at times, may not appear to be doing anything.

Step6

On your next reboot (Yeah...sorry...another restart), the Memory Diagnostic Test will either give you a "No problems" indication, or will provide a detailed trouble report.

Step7

If memory problems are found, they can be a severe source of Vista instability. Follow the steps given to resolve any issues that are identified.