How to Increase Windows XP Virtual Memory

XP paging file for virtual memory

Virtual memory is temporary RAM solution for your computer. When your CPU needs but already exceed the physical memory installed on your computer, it will use an empty area on the hard disk as makeshift memory storage. Windows XP automatically manages the virtual memory size, but you can change this setting if you regularly run out of virtual memory. Increasing your virtual memory will let you run more applications and keep the system from crashing, but the best solution is to install more RAM if possible.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP (any version) installed
• Insufficient physical RAM
• Proficient in Windows XP O.S.
• Comfortable with a computer
• Some PC troubleshooting and file organizing experience helpful
• Instructions in this article

Instructions

1. Open the "Start" menu and click on the "Control Panel" shortcut. Double-click on the "System" item. If your Control Panel is not displayed by item, click on the "Performance and Maintenance" option to see the System icon.

2. Click the "Advanced" tab in the window that appears. Click the "Settings" button in the Performance section. Click the "Advanced" tab in the new window.

3. Click the "Change" button in the Virtual memory section. Click the drive with your paging file, this is typically C: drive. Select the "Custom size" option and enter a size in the fields provided.

4. Click the "Set" button. Close both open windows. Restart Windows XP for the changes to take effect.

Tips & Warnings

• The minimum recommended page file size is 1.5 times the amount of system memory.

• Operating on low memory may cause a computer to lock-up.

References

• Microsoft Documentation: To Change the Size of the Virtual Memory Paging File