How to Free Up RAM on Windows 11

Boost Your Windows 11 Performance: A Guide to Freeing Up RAM

Is your Windows 11 PC experiencing frustrating lag and freezes? Low RAM (Random Access Memory) could be the culprit. This guide provides several effective methods to reclaim valuable RAM space and improve your system's responsiveness.

1. Close Unused Applications:

The simplest solution is to close unnecessary applications. Each running program consumes RAM, leaving less for other processes. Close apps by clicking the "X" in the top-right corner. For a more detailed view of RAM usage, open Task Manager (right-click the taskbar, select "Task Manager"). In the "Processes" tab, the "Memory" column shows RAM consumption per app. Click the column header to sort by RAM usage, allowing you to easily identify and close the biggest offenders. If an app refuses to close, right-click it in Task Manager and select "End Task."

2. Restart Your PC:

A simple reboot clears all RAM contents, providing a fresh start. Save any unsaved work before restarting your computer via the Start Menu > Power icon > Restart.

3. Manage Startup Applications:

If your RAM fills up immediately after startup, certain startup applications may be to blame. These automatically launch on boot, consuming system resources. Open Task Manager, go to the "Startup apps" tab, and disable any unnecessary programs that automatically launch on boot.

4. Detect Memory Leaks with Performance Monitor:

Persistent low RAM despite closing applications may indicate memory leaks. Use Performance Monitor to identify problematic apps. Press Windows R, type perfmon, and press Enter. Navigate to Monitoring Tools > Performance Monitor. Add "Process > Private Bytes." Monitor for apps whose memory usage consistently increases without decreasing, even when idle. Update, reinstall, or replace such apps.

5. Prevent Background App Activity:

Many apps run silently in the background, consuming RAM. Open Settings (Windows i), go to "Apps" > "Installed apps." For each app, access "Advanced options" and set "Let this app run in the background" to "Never" for those you don't need running constantly.

6. Utilize Efficiency Mode:

Windows 11's Efficiency Mode prioritizes RAM for active apps without closing them. In Task Manager, right-click an app and select "Efficiency Mode."

7. Scan for Malware:

Malware can significantly impact RAM usage. Run a full scan using your preferred antivirus (like Windows Security's Microsoft Defender).

8. Use Lighter Software Alternatives:

Resource-intensive apps can be replaced with lighter alternatives. For example, consider switching from Chrome to Firefox or using Paint.NET instead of Photoshop for basic image editing.

9. Increase Virtual Memory:

Virtual memory uses disk space as RAM extension. Search for "View advanced system settings," open "Performance Options," go to the "Advanced" tab, and click "Change" under Virtual Memory. Disable "Automatically manage...", select your Windows drive, choose "Custom size," and set "Initial size" to 1.5x your current RAM and "Maximum size" to 3x. Restart your PC.

10. Add More RAM:

If all else fails, consider adding more physical RAM to your PC. Check Task Manager ("Performance" > "Memory") to see available RAM slots.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve your Windows 11 PC's performance and eliminate frustrating lag.

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