When Linus Tech Tips recently discussed the reality of hidden hardware faults with Linus Torvalds, the creator of the Linux kernel, it brought renewed attention to an issue technicians have dealt with for years. According to LTT, many blue screens, crashes, and unexplained system errors that appear to be software-related are often caused by intermittent hardware failures that slip past quick tests and OS-level diagnostics.

At PC-Doctor, we see the same trend every day in repair shops, refurbish depots, and ITAD facilities. Modern hardware is running hotter, operating under tighter tolerances, and failing in more subtle ways than ever before.

This article breaks down what LTT got right, why it matters, and how the industry can respond.

Modern operating systems (OS) have become remarkably resilient. They recover from crashes, restart failing processes, and shield users from disruptive errors. While this is a major win for everyday usability, there is a hidden downside: hardware faults can be disguised as software glitches.

For IT technicians and power users, this masking effect leads to complex troubleshooting, unnecessary repair cycles, and–in worst-case scenarios–critical data loss.

Technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and diagnostic software has become a cornerstone of reliability, efficiency, and data security in IT operations. For repair shops, managed service providers (MSPs), IT asset disposition (ITAD) providers, and manufacturers, keeping pace with diagnostic trends is no longer optional. Businesses that invest in smarter diagnostic practices are better positioned to reduce downtime, protect data, and strengthen customer trust.

Below, we explore the leading trends shaping diagnostic software today, supported by industry research, regulatory standards, and real-world examples.