How to Check the RAM in a System

Random access memory, or RAM, is a type of physical memory that a computer uses to collect and display information as various programs work. The more RAM a computer has, the faster the computer will be able to complete many of its tasks. A computer with very little RAM will often become very slow after a few continuous hours of operation because all of its RAM will be "tied up." Whether you own a Mac or a PC, checking to see how much RAM your computer has is simple.

Instructions

1. Access the "Control Panel" through the "Start" menu on the lower left side of your desktop screen in Windows.

2. Click "System and Maintenance" within the control panel, then click "System." Depending on your control panel view, you may be able to see the "System" option immediately upon accessing the control panel.

3. Look for the "Installed Memory (RAM)" heading in the system window. There you will find the amount of RAM installed on your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using an Apple computer, simply choose the "About this Mac" option from the Apple menu. You will find the amount of installed RAM in the information that is displayed.

References

• Microsoft Support: Finding the Amount of RAM in Your System
• Apple Support: Viewing Mac OS X Memory Usage and Installed RAM