Troubleshooting guide
How to fix the problem
"Hardware reserved" is memory reserved for hardware. A small fraction may be normal, especially with integrated graphics. If only about half of the 16 GB is available, compare the amount recognized by BIOS with Windows to see where the memory is going.
Possible solutions
Choose the method that matches your situation. Start with the simplest suitable option and check the result. If the problem is fixed, you do not need to continue with the other methods.
Comparison of BIOS and Windows quantity
First, determine if the entire quantity is detected.
Steps to follow
- In Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to Performance > Memory and write down the total amount and "Hardware reserved".
- Open Settings > System > About and check “System Type”. 32-bit Windows has lower memory usage limits.
- Reboot to BIOS and note the total amount of RAM recognized.
- If the amount of BIOS is lower, check the RAM placement and channels. If all, proceed to check reservation settings.
Reservation and module verification
Do not change unknown values randomly.
Steps to follow
- If using integrated graphics, check the UMA/iGPU reservation option in the board manual. Return a high manual value to the manufacturer's recommended automatic.
- If you previously changed msconfig > Startup > Advanced options > Maximum memory, remove the limit you set; do not enter a new limit.
- If the BIOS is missing a module, turn it off, disconnect the power and check the manual one module at a time in the recommended slot.
- Repeat the comparison between BIOS and Windows. If the flaw follows a specific slot or channel, hardware diagnostics are required.
If the problem persists
If BIOS does not detect all memory, Windows registry fixes will not help. If BIOS can see everything, check the amount reserved for graphics, Windows architecture, and previously strange startup limits. If it is not safe to change the RAM, entrust the diagnostics of the contacts or the channel to a specialist.
Request a repair