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HP PC Hardware Diagnostics Explained

Beginner HP Applies to: Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11

A test that runs before Windows loads, built specifically to isolate hardware faults from software ones.

Before you start: save any open work and note down what you were doing when the problem started — that context helps if you need to search further or ask for help.
  1. Restart the HP, tap Esc repeatedly to reach the Startup Menu, then press F2 to launch HP PC Hardware Diagnostics directly, independent of Windows.
  2. Run the full "System Test" rather than an individual component test first, if you're not sure what's actually wrong — it checks memory, storage, and several other components in one pass.
  3. Note the failure ID shown if a test fails — it's a specific string HP support or documentation can look up directly, far more precise than describing the symptom.
  4. If Windows is working, the same diagnostics are also available as a downloadable Windows app from HP's support site, alongside driver checks, through HP Support Assistant.
  5. A component passing this test specifically means that component checks out — it doesn't rule out a software-level cause for whatever symptom sent you looking for it.
Still not fixed? Send us the details and we'll help you dig further, or browse related guides in HP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HP PC Hardware Diagnostics the same as HP Support Assistant?
No — they're related but distinct. Diagnostics specifically tests hardware, while Support Assistant is a broader tool that also handles driver updates and general PC health checks, and can launch diagnostics from within it.
What should I do with a failure ID the test gives me?
Save it and reference it when contacting HP support or searching their documentation — it identifies the specific component and failure type far more precisely than describing the symptom yourself.

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