Many people, particularly those with old computers or room for any extra RAM though, are wondering if they can download extra RAM or increase it through software. So, let’s take this myth and bust it, and investigate some ways to actually increase your memory.
How Much RAM Do You really need?
- Purpose of RAM: RAM is memory that holds temporary data by which your computer’s simple quick access to it facilitates multiple tasks simultaneously. It’s also much faster than storage, which means apps and the operating system can run smoothly.
- Increasing Needs: As software demands continue to grow, we need 16GB of RAM to even roll with it on things like memory intensive software like Google Chrome.
Download Of RAM From Internet Is Myth
First, this myth starts with companies in the early ’90s, including Syncronys with their SofRAM software who will tell you they can magically expand your RAM without expanding hardware.
- Why It’s Not Possible: RAM is a physical component, not an installation, nor downloadable from the internet. No software can increase your actual RAM capacity.
- What Syncronys Did: The SofRAM software placed data a lot closer together than what it should have been, but it couldn’t add more RAM. It didn’t do much to truly mitigate memory usage, causing your system to slow down quite frequently.
How to Increase Your Memory Capacity Naturally or With Realistic Alternatives
If you’re seeking more memory, consider these legitimate solutions:
- Add Physical RAM: Increasing your memory is the most effective by installing another RAM module.
- Use Virtual Memory (Paging File): You can increase virtual memory, in which Windows has control and bulges part of your SSD, for example, to use as backup memory, but it will be slower and wear down your SSD over time.
Setting Up Virtual Memory in Windows
To add virtual memory, follow these steps:
- Open System Settings: Do Control Panel > System > Advanced system settings.
- Adjust Performance Settings: Click on the Settings Link under the Performance Tab.
- Set Virtual Memory: We’re going to go into Virtual Memory and allocate part of your SSD to paging. It shouldn’t replace RAM, but can help temporarily.
Final Takeaway
Ram isn’t downloaded, but with some creative thinking you can get the most out of your computers memory. Have you attempted these methods or any tips of your own? Let us know in the comments!