When faced with the problem of optimizing the operation of a computer and increasing its performance, the first step to solving the problem, which is easiest to do, is to increase the amount of RAM or optimize it by increasing speed. The best option among those proposed is to purchase an additional memory stick (RAM) or replace existing memory sticks with those that have a large capacity.

What is RAM in a computer?

The difficulty of choosing when replacing a Windows RAM module lies in the particular influence of its parameters on the performance of the computer. It is worth remembering that RAM exchanges data with the central processor. The stronger the relationship between these components, the faster the necessary calculations are carried out in the system. Therefore, the choice of memory must be approached based on the above, and then the RAM will work with maximum efficiency.

But before you go to the store for new trims, you need to install:

• What amount of memory is currently installed and what is the maximum amount supported by the board?
• What type of memory is supported by the motherboard and processor?
• How many memory slots are there and in what mode do they operate?
• What is the memory frequency supported by the processor?

Let's start in order. In general, what is RAM needed for? To temporarily store data to perform ongoing processor operations. The larger it is, the easier it is for the processor to simultaneously perform several tasks.

RAM is volatile, which means that after the computer is turned off, all data on it will be deleted, unlike data stored on the hard drive.

How to find out the current amount of RAM?

To do this, it is not even necessary to open the computer lid - we launch the Speccy utility we already know and find the current characteristics in the corresponding section. In principle, all the main characteristics are already presented here, which we will consider in detail below.

At the moment we are interested in capacity - I have 2 slots on my laptop, both of which are occupied. The total size is 2000 MB (2GB), that is, there are 2 1 GB sticks on the laptop.

This is quite enough for normal daily operation of Windows, but if you plan to play games with complex graphics or use heavy graphics or video programs, then it is advisable to install more.

By the way, each version of the operating system has minimum RAM requirements, without which it simply will not work.

• For Windows XP - At least 64 MB of RAM (at least 128 MB recommended)
• Windows 10, 7, and 8—1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) of random access memory (RAM).

Even when planning for expansion, you should check the motherboard or processor specifications to see what the maximum size is supported. This is indicated in the detailed description in the memory section. So, in the Intel Core i54430 model the maximum size is 32 GB.

For an office PC on which you will only work with office documents, 1 GB of memory is sufficient.
For home viewing of videos, photos, and using various applications, it is recommended to use at least 2 GB.
For a powerful gaming computer - 8GB and above.

However, keep in mind that 4 GB or more will only work fully on a 64-bit OS; Windows 32 and up will see no more than 3 GB.

Supported RAM type

The next indicator characterizing the RAM is its type. We list them as technologies develop - SDRAMM DIMM, DDR (or PC), DDR2 (PC-2) and DDR3 (PC-3).

As you can see from the above screenshot from the Speccy program, my laptop supports DDR3 memory, although today the latest modern standard is DDR4.

All modern processors work with this standard, however, older standards can also be found on older boards. If your computer is many years old, then it is likely that it uses an outdated type and the memory module must be selected of this particular standard. Memory modules of different types are incompatible with “foreign” slots on the motherboard.

You can also find out the type of supported RAM from the characteristics of the processor (CPU) or motherboard model on the manufacturer's official website - you can also easily find out these models in the Speccy program or its analogues.

If you have spare sticks of RAM, it can also sometimes be difficult to determine what type it is. Usually they have a sticker indicating the type - PC, PC-2, PC-3 or DDR, DDR2, DDR3. But if there is no sticker, then we will determine it as follows.

The DDR and DDR2 strips are very similar in appearance and have 1 key (cutout) located almost in the center. But DDR has 180 contacts - 92 on each side. And on DDR2 - 240 - 120 on each side, and they are visually narrower than DDR2. It's easy to count them because they are numbered.

DDR3 modules have the same number of pins as PC-2, but the key is not in the middle, but shifted to the edge.

The memory module of the very old SDRAM standard is distinguished by the presence of two keys.

Number of slots for memory sticks and their operating mode

We also saw the number of slots intended for installing brackets in the program - I have 2 of them. If you open the lid of the computer case, you can see several characteristic one- or multi-colored connectors on the board. This is the place where the memory sticks are placed. There are 4 of them in the picture below.

The multicolored color tells us that the memory on this board can operate in dual-channel mode - that is, data is simultaneously transmitted to the controller to the processor or northbridge (depending on) via two channels, which increases the speed of data processing.

To activate this mode, you should purchase at least 2 strips and, as a rule, insert them into two same-color connectors. Which ones exactly? This is written in the instructions for the board and colors may differ in different models. If you buy 4 modules at once, then use all the slots at once.

You also need to take into account that if you currently have a total memory of 2 GB, like me, and you plan to increase it to 4 GB, then it is optimal to purchase 2 modules of 2 GB each rather than one 4 GB, since you can use them to the maximum in in two-channel mode.

It should also be noted here that when purchasing several modules, it is advisable to choose one manufacturer, or even better, take a ready-made kit (KIT) consisting of several strips at once - such a kit is guaranteed to work without problems.

Clock frequency

Another important indicator of memory is its clock speed, which is measured in megahertz (MHz). The speed of information processing depends on it. When choosing a module, be sure to look at what frequency your processor officially supports. The model that was shown in the screenshot above works with PC3-12800 (DDR3 1600 MHz), PC3-10600 (DDR3 1333 MHz), PC3-8500 (DDR3 1066 MHz) memory. The same characteristics can be seen on online store websites in the detailed description of memory modules. For example, let's look at a gaming kit of 4 4 GB sticks Corsair XMS3 DDR-III DIMM 32Gb KIT 4*8Gb:

RAM Bandwidth

A parameter such as throughput, which shows how much data can be transferred as much as possible in a certain time, also depends on the frequency. It is measured in megabytes per second (MB/s) and is calculated by multiplying the frequency by 8. That is, in our example, the memory has a frequency of 1333 MHz * 8 = 10667 MB/s, which is also visible in the description.

The higher the bandwidth, the higher the speed of the RAM module. However, we take into account the fact that

modern processors support memory with a maximum frequency of 1600 MHz.

If you buy an expensive stick with a higher frequency, it will work the same as a cheaper one at 1600 MHz.

Timing

Here we can also talk about such a characteristic as timing. This is the delay time when processing operations inside the RAM module chips themselves. The timing is recorded as a sequence of several numbers - in our example it is 9-9-9-24. The last 4th two-digit parameter characterizes the performance of the entire microcircuit as a whole.

Timing can also be indicated by the letters CL and a number, which indicates the first value in the detailed sequence. In our example, the short version would be designated as CL9.

The lower the timings, the better, but such modules also cost more. However, this only matters for high-performance, high-speed PCs—for home and office use, you can ignore this parameter.

Gamers can use the BIOS settings and manually play with changing the timings downwards, but this must be done carefully, otherwise you risk damaging the modules.

RAM for a laptop or desktop computer?

In theory, this is the first question that we should ask ourselves, but essentially it is not the most important, since it is simply impossible to confuse the form factor. For a laptop, the modules are wide and short, for a PC they are long and narrow.

On the websites in the characteristics they are indicated as follows:

• DIMM - for PC,
• SODIMM - for laptop.

Type of cooling of memory strips

If you are purchasing a RAM module for a powerful gaming computer, then you should pay attention to the type of cooling. During intensive work or “overclocking” by decreasing the timings, they can heat up, so the work of the internal case fans may not be enough to cool them.

On simple strips there is no cooling at all - you will see open soldered microcircuit chips. On more expensive models, the most common type of cooling is installed - a metal radiator.

For the most avid gamers, they even came up with such a thing as water cooling - such modules, together with the system, can significantly exceed the cost of both the motherboard and processor combined.

Decoding the RAM module

Now let's decipher the name of the memory module presented in one of the popular online stores:

Crucial Ballistix Sport XT BLS2C4G3D18ADS3CEU DDR-III DIMM 8Gb KIT 2*4Gb PC3-14900 CL10

• So, manufacturer Cruisal, the kit consists of 2 modules of 4 Gb each.
• Memory standard DDR-III and form factor DIMM, that is, for a desktop PC.
• Bandwidth - 14900 Mb/s
• Timing - CL10
• In this case, you need to look at the detailed characteristics of the product, or calculate it yourself by dividing the bandwidth (14900) by 8.

Tips to follow when buying RAM

• It is worth buying RAM from trusted manufacturers. The price of branded brands is much higher, but the quality guarantee and stable operation of the computer are worth it. Here is a list of verified companies: Corsair, Kingston, Kingmax, Transcend, OCZ, Hynix, Hyundai, Samsung.
• RAM paired with a good quality chipset is the key to maximum performance, considering that the former has a maximum operating frequency.
• Remember that RAM should always be paired. It is necessary that the modules match in operating frequency; modules installed with different frequencies work at the memory frequency, which is the slowest of those that you installed, or do not work together at all. For example, if you have two channels for RAM and one of the slots has a 2GB stick, then you need to purchase another module with the same capacity, timings and from the same manufacturer.
  And the best option is to buy a set of modules (Kit), which is guaranteed by the manufacturer that these strips are compatible
• For gaming computers, preference should be given to RAM with the lowest time delays. Even at low frequencies, the memory always works at maximum efficiency.
• Be sure to ensure that your motherboard, processor, and operating system are compatible with the amount of memory you choose. If your computer system is 32-bit, then you should purchase a stick of no more than 4GB, since a 32-bit system sees up to 3GB of RAM.
• When purchasing memory to increase existing RAM, it would be better to purchase a model whose characteristics are similar to those installed in your computer. Purchasing a better or worse specification bar will lead to deterioration in computer performance.

In conclusion, here is a detailed video on installing a memory module in a computer.

Computer technology is an essential assistant in solving many problems, so it is not at all surprising that users place increased demands on it. However, it should be understood that over time, installed devices become outdated and computer equipment needs to be modernized. Quite often, PC owners feel an urgent need to increase RAM, so for many it is important to know how to increase RAM on a computer.

Many new programs require more computer power

Increasing RAM can significantly improve computer performance, so users interested in performance are eager to find ways to make such actions easy. One such method is to purchase additional RAM modules and install them on your computer. In order to properly increase RAM, it is useful to first familiarize yourself with information on how to add RAM to a computer, as well as perform a number of preparatory actions.

Determining the type of RAM

Computers were purchased at different times, so their equipment may differ significantly. Purchasing RAM at random is strictly prohibited, because the currently existing types of RAM, which include DDR 1, DDR 2, DDR 3, are incompatible with each other, and their joint use on one computer can lead to a sad result.

In addition, the motherboard can also only support a certain type of RAM, so by trying to add the wrong type of RAM, the user can damage the entire motherboard.

Performance is also ensured by the fact that the system does not need to spend a long time searching for files required for execution throughout the entire hard drive space, since all the necessary files are concentrated on external media.

Having chosen this particular method to increase the performance of the PC, the user must purchase a flash drive with the necessary parameters, otherwise all attempts will simply be unsuccessful. The flash drive must have at least 256 MB of free space, the write speed must be 1.75 Mbit/s, and the read speed must be 2.5 Mbit/s.

Once all the important tools are available to the user, you can proceed to the process to increase the cache size and speed up PC performance.

After inserting the flash drive into the USB connector, you should wait for it to fully load, and then right-click to bring up the context menu. Next, go to “Properties”, and then to “ReadyBoost”. On this tab, you should check the box, confirming your desire to use the ReadyBoost technology, and you should also manually set the desired cache size. All you have to do is click “Ok” and wait for the process to complete.

A PC user must remember that a flash drive to which ReadyBoost technology has been applied cannot simply be removed from the computer. To remove the USB drive, you must first disable the previously running ReadyBoost technology.

Another way to increase RAM on a computer is overclocking. Using this method, the user manages to overclock the RAM. To achieve this, the user must make changes to the BIOS settings, increasing the frequency and voltage.

With the right changes, computer performance can be increased by almost 10%. However, it is important to understand that if mistakes are made, the user risks damaging not only the RAM, but also other components. In this regard, most experienced users recommend that in order to carry out high-quality and competent overclocking and increase productivity, give the computer to a real professional who is familiar with overclocking techniques down to the smallest detail.

If, however, the user still wants to improve the computer himself by overclocking, he should first go into the BIOS. To do this, when loading the OS, press one of the buttons: “Delete”, “F2” or “F8”.

After successfully entering the BIOS, the user must go to Video Ram or Shared Memory. There, on the DRAM Read Timing line, you should reduce the number of cycles (timings). Experts say that the lower the timings, the better the PC performance. However, excessive reduction can lead to negative consequences.

Finally, for the settings to be successfully saved, you must press “F10”, after which the computer will restart and the changes will take effect.

So, wanting to add RAM to a computer, the user must have not only good reasons for this, but also the necessary components, as well as study the available recommendations and master the necessary skills. It is commendable to improve your technical capabilities, but experimental “amateur activities” in the complete absence of the necessary knowledge are strictly prohibited.

The lack of RAM causes a lot of inconvenience to users, since with its small amount it becomes impossible to work with some resource-intensive programs, play modern computer games that are very demanding on system resources, watch high-definition videos, etc. This is where the problem of how to Increase the RAM to such a size that there is no slowdown or freezing of the system. There are several basic methods for this, including the use of removable storage devices in the form of regular flash drives or memory cards used in smartphones and tablets.

RAM: what is it and how does it work?

Before dealing with issues of increasing the amount of RAM, you should understand what it is, how it functions and what tasks are assigned to it.

Random access memory (RAM, RAM, random access memory, “RAM”) is designed to store data from all processes (system and user) active at a certain point in time. It is the link between the installed software and the central processor, but not directly, but through the system bus and caching.

Without rummaging through the jungle of computer terminology, RAM memory can most simply be described as follows: at the moment a program or process starts, the main components are loaded into RAM, which are stored there until the program ends. Only after loading is the commands redirected to the central processor, which processes them. Thus, RAM memory is a kind of intermediate data exchange buffer, without which no system can function. The larger the amount of RAM, the more components can be loaded and transferred for processing.

How to increase RAM by increasing the number of sticks

Let's leave aside the issue of increasing memory through the use of removable devices for now, and consider standard methods to increase system performance, which in some cases can be very useful.

In stationary PCs, the issue of increasing RAM is solved by simply replacing or adding memory sticks by inserting them into the corresponding slots on the motherboard. But it is advisable to use sticks of the same type and generation (SDRAM, DDR, etc.) and take into account many additional factors.

Changing the paging file size

Another solution to the question of how to increase RAM by using additional means without physically changing the volume is to set a larger size of virtual memory, which is responsible for the so-called paging file (pagefile.sys), which is space reserved on the hard drive , where cached data is written when the RAM limit is exceeded. Of course, the speed of accessing the hard drive will be much lower than directly accessing RAM, but it’s an option.

To do this, use the advanced settings section in the computer properties, where you select the advanced settings tab, and use the button in the performance section to go to the current settings. On the Advanced tab, you can change the virtual memory size by setting a custom value larger than the recommended default setting. However, you shouldn't get carried away. If the size is too high, the system will begin to first access the pagefile.sys file, and not the RAM, which will only lead to the opposite effect.

Changing timing in BIOS settings

If you look at the problem of how to increase RAM on a laptop where it is not possible to install additional memory sticks, you can use the BIOS settings (although this mostly concerns increasing the amount of video memory).

In the additional settings section, you need to find the Shared Memory line and change the DRAM Read Timing parameter (the lower the value is set, the higher the system performance).

Increasing RAM using a flash drive: prerequisites

Finally, let's look at how to increase RAM on your computer using a flash drive. This is done quite simply, but several initial conditions must be met.

For these procedures, you will need a removable drive (flash drive or memory card) with a capacity of at least 1 GB and no more than 32 GB with a write speed of 1.75 MB/sec (with 512 KB blocks) and a read speed of 2.5 MB/sec (with the same block size). There must be at least 256 MB of free space, although this parameter can be neglected, since in any case, the media will be formatted at the preparatory stage (recommended). The total memory size of simultaneously connected devices cannot exceed 256 GB. And it is advisable to use devices that support the USB 3.0 standard, since in this case the data transfer speed will be much higher than through ports with a USB 2.0 interface.

Where to begin?

Now directly about solving the problem of how to increase RAM on a computer. Let's take Windows 7 as an example, although in all other modifications the actions will not be different.

Many people have probably noticed that after inserting the device into the appropriate port and with the drive auto-detection mode enabled, a window appears on the screen with a choice of action. But few people pay attention to the fact that at the very bottom of the window there is a system acceleration line. This is exactly what you need. We click on it and for now we leave aside the question of how to increase RAM on a laptop or desktop terminal, since we need to perform several preliminary steps.

ReadyBoost technology

To increase RAM, ReadyBoost technology will be used, which means that physical flash memory can be used as virtual memory. In other words, another swap file is simply created on the removable device.

For operating systems based on x64 architecture, the size of the used physical space cannot exceed 32 GB, for x86 (32 bit) systems - 4 GB. In addition, according to the recommendations of Microsoft Corporation specialists, the ratio of drive memory to stationary RAM can range from 1:1 to 2.5:1. At the same time, the maximum performance increase is observed when reading smaller blocks with a size of 4 KB (compared to accessing hard drives, the performance increase is approximately 10 times), but when reading large blocks, the effect is almost invisible.

Formatting media

So, how can you increase RAM to the size the user needs? First, format the media by selecting the appropriate partition from the right-click menu on the device.

It is advisable to perform a full format with the choice of the NTFS file system without changing the default cluster size (usually the same 512 KB). We confirm the removal of all information and wait for the process to complete.

Using media and specifying the size of allocated memory

Now we right-click on the formatted media in the usual “Explorer” and select the properties section.

In the new window, go to the ReadyBoost tab and activate the permission line for using this device for the specified technology (the size will be set automatically, using the maximum possible space). If a smaller volume is needed, the usage line just below is activated, and the size is indicated manually. But in general, it is recommended to use the maximum.

After this, in the same “Explorer” you can see that the device is almost completely full, and only 100 MB of space remains free. That's how it should be. The filled space will be used for caching files. Agree, the increase is significant.

Increasing memory in Android systems

Now a few words about how to increase RAM on Android. You don't need to do anything physically. In the simplest case, you can simply stop currently unused applications running in the background. However, this will have no effect, since they will start again. In this case, it is better to turn to optimizer programs that allow you not only to unload unnecessary processes from RAM, but also control autorun. In this case, it is advisable to have root rights with the ability to remove built-in applets of the system itself.

But this method rather looks like self-deception. Therefore, the problem of how to increase RAM on Android can be solved using utilities like RAM Manager (for older devices with version 2.1 systems), SWAPit RAM EXPANDER, Swapper 2, etc. The last two programs are able to create their own swap files in a similar way with Windows systems and save cached data either in the internal memory of the device or on SD cards (you can specify the location of the swap file manually). In addition, they also have quite a lot of additional tools, including manual control of the performance of the entire system.

Brief conclusions

If we draw conclusions from all of the above, it is worth noting that the most effective method of increasing RAM is still replacing or adding strips. However, if such an opportunity is simply physically absent (for example, on laptops or netbooks), the option of using removable drives seems to be the most preferable. In this case, you don’t even have to use the system virtual memory, the file of which is stored on the HDD, since access to the hard drive has a lower speed. But, as is already clear, you need to take into account some of the requirements for flash drives and removable memory cards. Without this, you can’t even count on the effect of increasing RAM. And of course, do not forget to insert a flash drive or card into the appropriate port or card reader before turning on your computer or laptop, since inserting media will not work in a running system.

Why might you need to increase the amount of RAM on your computer?

Unfortunately, many developers of operating systems and software (programs for work and games) do not think at all about optimization, do not remember that many users do not have the opportunity to constantly buy the most modern hardware, so their creations can “slow down” . To partially solve this problem, you may need to increase the amount of RAM on your computer.

How to buy a suitable RAM stick?

When purchasing a RAM stick, you need to remember that different types of RAM are not suitable for every motherboard. To choose the right memory stick, you need to look in the documentation for the exact model name of the installed motherboard. Look at the description of this motherboard model on the manufacturer’s website, which should indicate what type of memory is suitable for the job, as well as the maximum possible amount of memory that this motherboard “sees.” You can also find out from the description the number of slots for installing RAM.

Determine the amount of RAM available on your computer. To do this, turn on the computer, right-click on the “My Computer” icon, then select “Properties”, in the “General” tab and you can find the total amount of installed RAM.

From the data received, your task is to calculate the volume of the stick that you will purchase (if at least one slot for RAM on the motherboard is free, then you just need to subtract the amount of installed RAM from the maximum possible amount of RAM, otherwise you will need to pull out one of the smaller sticks volume, and in its place install a new bar, the volume of which is also calculated).

After purchasing a new memory stick, remove the case cover (depending on the case model, it can be removed entirely or it is possible to remove only the side cover). Look carefully at how the existing memory stick(s) are installed. Place a new strip parallel to them and insert it into the free slot. The memory stick must fit tightly into the connector so that the contacts are not visible, and the latch must be activated, which additionally holds the strip in the connector.

The diagram below shows an example of changing a DDR2 memory stick, but it is not at all necessary that you will also have this type of memory, however, the appearance of the RAM connectors and the memory sticks themselves are similar and you also need to take into account the location of the recesses on the boards.

If everything is done correctly, the above tab will display more memory than before.

Currently, progress is proceeding by leaps and bounds, and computers, laptops and other equipment tend to become obsolete faster. Several factors affect computer performance. Among them is the amount of RAM. But how can you increase your computer's RAM yourself? This question often worries PC users. In this article we will look at all the ways to increase RAM. Three of them will not require any financial investment from you at all!

How to increase RAM. The simplest option

There are several options for increasing your computer's RAM. The first is the simplest, purchasing new RAM, the volume of which will significantly exceed the previous model. This method is not cheap, so if you don’t have extra money to buy RAM, move on to the next one.

Determining the required type of RAM

You cannot buy RAM just like that, indiscriminately, since there is a high chance of failure. The memory may not be compatible with other components of the computer. In addition, the motherboard is also only capable of supporting a certain type of RAM. If you select it incorrectly, you will simply disable it.

But in order to avoid such unpleasant consequences, you need to find out the characteristics of the component that is currently installed in your computer. You also need to calculate the number of additional places for RAM.

The characteristics and number of places can be determined using several methods. The first of them is installing an additional program that will help you diagnose components. The second is to remove the cover of the computer unit and independently count the RAM slots.

Some equipment repair and setup technicians advise filling all the RAM slots, as this will help achieve maximum performance from the device. At the time of purchase, it is worth looking at the memory with the highest speed, this will also help in increasing the speed of the PC.

You should also take into account the fact that the computer has a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system. Therefore, increasing memory to 4-6 GB makes no sense in a 32-bit OS. Therefore, if you want to install more RAM, then change the system.

Installing memory in a computer

After purchasing new RAM, you need to figure out how to properly install it on your computer. Adding modules is quite easy. Each RAM slot is equipped with clamps on both sides. They need to be moved to the side, then the old module will pop out. You can install a new one instead. When you attach the memory, you will hear a click, which will indicate that you have correctly attached the RAM. All that remains is to close it with latches so that it does not fall out of the socket.

It is better not to assemble the computer unit right away, because there is a high probability of difficulties when reading the new RAM. After some time has passed - about 10 minutes, you can assemble the block. To check whether new RAM is correctly recognized on your computer, you need to click on the “my computer” icon and click on the “properties” section. The “installed memory” category will show the amount of memory that you have installed. If the numbers match, then you did everything correctly.

Important! Before installing RAM, you must turn off the power supply and remove static voltage. If this is not done, any part may burn out during removal or installation. To remove static voltage, you need to place your palm on the computer unit and the other on the radiator of the storage battery. This way you can neutralize static voltage and work safely with a disassembled computer.

So, we figured out the easiest way to increase RAM on a computer. However, if the financial situation at the moment does not allow us to do this, then we make do on our own. There are several more simple ways that do not require any financial resources.

The second method is to increase the computer’s virtual memory

Our PC is designed in such a way that those files that cannot be stored in RAM remain on the hard drive in a certain place. Windows OS, as a rule, independently sets the amount of virtual memory, but if necessary, the user can change these settings. To do this, you don’t have to be a programmer, everything is quite simple.

The instructions for expanding virtual memory on Windows XP and 7 are very similar, since the menu and system structure are almost the same.

There is a "start" button in the lower left corner of the screen. We go there and select the “computer” line. We left-click on it and go to “properties” in the menu.

computer properties

When you open a new window, you will see the lines “advanced system settings” on the left.

additional system parameters

additionally

You will also be redirected to a new window in which there will be an “additional” section. In the “virtual memory” section, click on the “change” button.

performance parameters

Again, you will be presented with a new window with parameters that you will have to configure yourself. First, uncheck the box next to “automatically select paging file size.” After that, select any drive that has enough space and look at the optimal amount of RAM expansion. It is this number that can be entered in the “specify size” column - initial and maximum. After completing the steps, confirm all changes with the “OK” button.

virtual memory

For Windows 8, increasing the amount of virtual memory occurs differently. In the main menu, find the “search” item. In the search bar, enter the following query “system properties performance”. Press the Enter key and the “Performance Options” window will appear. In it, select the “advanced” tab. There is also a “virtual memory” column where you can increase the virtual memory. This is done in the same way as on Windows 7/Xp.

Attention! Changing virtual memory does not provide the same benefits as installing new RAM. This will only speed up your PC a little.

The third way is to increase RAM using external drives

This is a very effective method for creating space for RAM in your PC. This method appeared relatively recently, and it became available using the Ready Boost technology, which was invented by Microsoft. However, not every user uses this method due to lack of awareness.

The Ready Boost program allows you to increase the amount of RAM using any external drive. The simplest and most common of them are flash drives or flash drives. Now almost every person has them, and sometimes several of them. So why not use one of them to increase the RAM on your personal computer?

The main requirements for a flash drive will be a read speed of at least 2.5 MB/sec, free space of 256 MB and a write speed of 1.75 MB/sec.

This method will not only change the amount of memory for the better, but also speed up the PC.

So, let's begin:

First, insert the USB flash drive and go to the menu. Select the external drive and right-click on it. In the new window we find the “properties” item, wait until it opens. When the “properties” open, find the Ready Boost item and tick it. Move the reserved space slider to speed up work to the maximum. This will mean that you are using the full capacity of the flash drive. After completing the steps, click “ok” and wait for the system to apply the new settings.

Now you know how to increase your computer's RAM using a flash drive.

And the last, fourth method is to increase memory using BIOS

Most versions of Bios allow you to change RAM settings manually, so you can use this method. It also does not require financial investments from you. However, after such setup, it is necessary to check the system to avoid malfunctions.

How to change the amount of memory without changing the main BIOS settings?

How to increase RAM through BIOS. First, enter the Bios. To do this, you need to turn off your computer. Then start launching it and while loading the OS, hold down the delete, f2 keys or the ctrl/alt/esc combination.

how to increase RAM via BIOS

Second, in the Bios menu we look for the Performance section.

Memory section

Third, here we find the Memory tab and reduce the numerical value of the timings in the CAS Latensy category. As their number decreases, Cache performance increases. The fewer there are, the better. However, it is worth taking into account that reducing the number of timings to a minimum value will affect the operation of the equipment. Don't be overzealous!

CAS Latency

And fourth, save all changes and exit Bios. After everything, you need to restart the computer and check its operation.

Attention! Changing RAM in Bios can change other system settings. Be careful!

All the methods described above will help you increase your computer's RAM. Three of them will not require any financial investment from you. It is not forbidden to improve the technical capabilities of your PC, but watch your actions and follow the instructions provided. Then the whole process will be easy and you will be using a more accelerated version of your computer. Now you have the answer to the question - how to increase RAM.

Result:

This was about how to increase your computer's RAM. All methods are described in as much detail as possible, with pictures if possible.