How to Free Up Virtual Memory

Virtual memory acts as additional RAM for a computer. This is not its only purpose, but it is its general purpose. When there is not enough RAM, the hard drive tries to help out by supplying virtual memory. Many programmers take advantage of virtual memory in their coding. Virtual memory is not accessed as quickly as RAM, and should not be considered a replacement for it. If an application needs to use RAM, but speed is not all that important, then the programmers will utilize the virtual memory from the hard drive instead. If you want to increase the productiveness of your computer, it is better to buy RAM than increase the size of your virtual memory.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Windows XP

1. Go into "Control Panel."

2. Select "System."

3. Choose the "Advanced" tab.

4. Click the "Settings" button in the "Performance" section.

5. Select the "Advanced" tab.

6. Click the "Change" button in the "Virtual Memory" section.

7. Select the "Custom Size" radio button and alter the size of the virtual memory.

8. Click the "OK" button.

Windows Vista

9. Go into the "Control" panel.

10. Choose "System and Maintenance."

11. Select "System."

12. Choose the "Advanced system settings" option to the left of the screen.

13. Choose the "Advanced" tab.

14. Click the "Settings" button in the "Performance" section.

15. Select the "Advanced" tab.

16. Click the "Change" button in the "Virtual Memory" section.

17. Select the "Custom Size" radio button and alter the virtual memory.

18. Click the "OK" button.

[paul-777]

on 8/6/2009 Nice article! Thanks! 5 Stars!