If you’re a Windows 10 user, you may have noticed that your computer’s performance can sometimes be sluggish. This can be due to a variety of factors, but one common culprit is high RAM usage. When your computer’s RAM is being used up, it can slow down your system and make it difficult to run multiple programs at once. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for decreasing RAM usage on Windows 10 and boosting your computer’s performance.
Why Is RAM Usage Important?
Before we dive into ways to decrease RAM usage, let’s first understand why it’s important. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a type of computer memory that is used to store data temporarily while your computer is running. It allows your computer to access and use data quickly, which is essential for running programs and performing tasks.
When your computer’s RAM is being used up, it can cause your system to slow down and become unresponsive. This is because your computer has to work harder to access and use data, which can lead to performance issues. By decreasing RAM usage, you can improve your computer’s speed and overall performance.
How to Decrease RAM Usage on Windows 10
Now that we understand the importance of RAM usage, let’s explore some ways to decrease it on Windows 10.
Close Unnecessary Programs
One of the most common reasons for high RAM usage is having too many programs open at once. Each program you have open uses a portion of your computer’s RAM, so the more programs you have open, the more RAM is being used. To decrease RAM usage, try closing any programs that you’re not actively using.
Disable Startup Programs
Another way to decrease RAM usage is to disable programs from starting up automatically when you turn on your computer. These programs can use up valuable RAM even when you’re not using them, which can slow down your system. To disable startup programs, follow these steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
- Click on the Startup tab.
- Right-click on any programs you don’t want to start up automatically and select Disable.
Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
Windows 10 has a built-in tool called the Windows Memory Diagnostic that can help you identify and fix any issues with your computer’s RAM. To use this tool, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type Windows Memory Diagnostic.
- Click on the Windows Memory Diagnostic app.
- Click Restart now and check for problems.
The tool will run a series of tests on your computer’s RAM and let you know if there are any issues that need to be addressed.
Adjust Virtual Memory Settings
Virtual memory is a feature in Windows that allows your computer to use hard drive space as if it were RAM. By adjusting your virtual memory settings, you can decrease the amount of RAM being used and improve your computer’s performance. To adjust virtual memory settings, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type Advanced system settings.
- Click on View advanced system settings.
- Click on the Advanced tab.
- Under Performance, click on Settings.
- Click on the Advanced tab.
- Under Virtual memory, click on Change.
- Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
- Select Custom size and enter a lower value for the Initial size and Maximum size.
- Click Set and then OK.
Update Your Drivers
Outdated or faulty drivers can also contribute to high RAM usage. It’s important to regularly update your drivers to ensure they are functioning properly and not using up unnecessary resources. To update your drivers, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key and type Device Manager.
- Click on the Device Manager app.
- Expand the categories and right-click on a device.
- Select Update driver and follow the prompts to update the driver.
Use a Performance Optimization Tool
If you’re not comfortable making changes to your computer’s settings, you can use a performance optimization tool to do it for you. These tools can scan your computer for issues and make recommendations for improving performance. Some popular options include CCleaner, Advanced SystemCare, and AVG TuneUp.
Real-World Examples of Decreasing RAM Usage
One company that has successfully decreased RAM usage on Windows 10 is Microsoft. In 2018, they released an update that improved the way Windows 10 manages memory, resulting in a 27% decrease in RAM usage. This improvement has led to faster performance and better overall user experience for Windows 10 users.
Additional Tips for Boosting Performance
In addition to decreasing RAM usage, there are other steps you can take to boost your computer’s performance. These include:
- Regularly cleaning out temporary files and junk data.
- Running regular virus scans to ensure your computer is not infected with malware.
- Adding more RAM to your computer if it is capable of handling it.
Conclusion
By following these tips and tricks, you can decrease RAM usage on Windows 10 and boost your computer’s performance. Whether you choose to manually adjust settings or use a performance optimization tool, taking steps to decrease RAM usage can lead to a faster, more efficient computer. With these improvements, you can enjoy a smoother user experience and get more done in less time.
