What hardware component should be checked first if a server is crashing with a BSOD due to high resource usage?

When troubleshooting a server that is crashing with a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) due to high resource usage, the first hardware component to check is memory. High resource usage often leads to resource contention, and memory is critical in determining how well a server can perform. If the memory is faulty or not functioning optimally, it can lead to crashes, particularly under heavy load scenarios when the server is trying to manage and allocate resources.

Checking the memory can involve running diagnostic tools to test for errors or checking for proper seating and compatibility of the memory modules. In many cases, memory-related issues can lead to system instability and errors, making it a primary suspect in situations involving high resource consumption.

While other components like the CPU, hard drive, and RAID controller can also contribute to crashes and performance issues, memory is commonly the first area examined, especially since problems with memory can directly lead to data corruption and system failures. Thus, investigating memory first allows for addressing the root cause of the BSOD effectively.