Will Adding RAM Speed Up a Laptop?

RAM is your computer's short-term memory.

Adding more RAM, or random-access memory, is an easy and cost-effective computer upgrade. It can help an aging system run newer, more memory intensive programs, making a RAM upgrade a viable alternative to purchasing a new computer.

How RAM Works

RAM is the memory that a system uses to store the information needed to perform a task. For any given task, the RAM will store information from the operating system, the program application, and any data uploaded into the program. It's analogous to the part of your brain used to carry on a conversation.

When Does a Computer Need More RAM?

If your start-up has slowed and memory intensive applications, like games and Internet browsers, take a long time to boot up, your computer's RAM may be operating at maximum capacity.

Check the Specs

Compare the memory that came with your computer to the amount required to run the operating system and applications you currently use. If you're near the maximum, it may be time to upgrade.

View Your Current Usage

In Windows, you can view your RAM usage in Task Manager. In Apple OS, you can view your RAM in the Activity Monitor, where it's referred to as the System Memory.

References

• PC World: How to Upgrade Your PC's RAM
• Mircosoft At Home: Add More Memory to Your Computer
• IT at John Hopkins: Glossary P-S