Question:

• CPU: Intel Core i7-9700K 3.60GHz
• Motherboard: Z390 Aorus Ultra-CF
• RAM: 32GB DDR4 3200MHz (4x8GB)
• GPU: GeForce RTX 3060
• OS: Windows 10 Pro
• SSD: Samsung 980 M.2

I

recently upgraded my RAM from 16GB to 32GB by adding two more 8GB modules of the same model and speed. I also enabled XMP in the BIOS to run the RAM at 3200MHz. However, since then, I have been experiencing lag spikes and freezes in games, as well as slow performance and boot errors. Sometimes, the BIOS resets to default settings and lowers the RAM speed to 2400MHz. What could be causing these issues and how can I fix them?”

Answer:

How to fix lag spikes, freezes, and boot errors after upgrading RAM and enabling XMP

If you have recently upgraded your RAM and enabled XMP in the BIOS, you may encounter some issues such as lag spikes and freezes in games, slow performance, and boot errors. These issues could be caused by various factors, such as incompatible RAM modules, unstable XMP profiles, insufficient power supply, or corrupted system files. In this article, we will explain how to troubleshoot and fix these issues.

The first thing you should do is to check if your RAM modules are compatible with each other and with your motherboard. Even if they are of the same model and speed, they may have different timings, voltages, or firmware versions that could cause conflicts or instability. To check the compatibility of your RAM modules, you can use a tool such as [CPU-Z](https://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html) to inspect their specifications and compare them. You can also refer to the [QVL (Qualified Vendor List)](https://www.gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z390-AORUS-ULTRA-rev-10/support#support-doc) of your motherboard to see if your RAM modules are tested and verified by the manufacturer.

If you find any discrepancies or incompatibilities between your RAM modules, you may need to replace them with matching ones or adjust their settings manually in the BIOS. Alternatively, you can try to run your RAM modules in single-channel mode or at a lower speed to see if that improves the stability.

Test the stability of your XMP profile

XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) is a feature that allows you to overclock your RAM by applying a predefined profile of settings in the BIOS. However, not all XMP profiles are guaranteed to work flawlessly with your system, especially if you have mixed or mismatched RAM modules. Therefore, you should test the stability of your XMP profile before using it for gaming or other intensive tasks.

To test the stability of your XMP profile, you can use a tool such as [MemTest86](https://www.memtest86.com/) to run a memory diagnostic test on your system. This test will check for any errors or faults in your RAM that could cause crashes or data corruption. You should run the test for at least a few hours or until it completes several passes. If you encounter any errors during the test, you should disable the XMP profile or try a different one in the BIOS.

Check the power supply of your system

Another possible cause of your issues is an insufficient or faulty power supply. If your power supply is not able to deliver enough power to your system, especially after upgrading your RAM and enabling XMP, it could result in instability, performance drops, or boot failures. To check the power supply of your system, you can use a tool such as [HWiNFO](https://www.hwinfo.com/) to monitor the voltages and currents of your components. You can also use a tool such as [OCCT](https://www.ocbase.com/) to stress test your system and see how it handles the load.

If you notice any abnormal fluctuations or drops in the voltages or currents of your components, you may need to replace your power supply with a higher wattage or better quality one. You can also try to lower the power consumption of your system by disabling or reducing the overclocking of your CPU, GPU, or RAM.

Repair the system files of your OS

The last possible cause of your issues is a corrupted or damaged system file of your OS. If your system file is corrupted or damaged, it could prevent your system from booting properly or cause errors or crashes during operation. To repair the system files of your OS, you can use the [System File Checker (SFC)](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/using-system-file-checker-in-windows-10-365e0031-36b1-6031-f804-8fd86e0ef4ca) tool to scan and fix any issues. You can also use the [DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)](https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/repair-a-windows-image) tool to restore the health of your system image.

To use the SFC tool, you need to open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command:

“`

sfc /scannow

“`

This command will scan your system for any corrupted or missing system files and attempt to repair them. You may need to restart your system after the scan is completed.

To use the DISM tool, you need to open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command:

“`

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

“`

This command will scan your system image for any issues and attempt to restore its health. You may need to restart your system after the command is completed.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explained how to fix lag spikes, freezes, and boot errors after upgrading RAM and enabling XMP. We have suggested four possible solutions: checking the compatibility of your RAM modules, testing the stability of your XMP profile, checking the power supply of your system, and repairing the system files of your OS. We hope that these solutions will help you resolve your issues and enjoy a smooth and stable gaming experience.