Computer memory or RAM is a fundamental part of most computers. The more RAM you have, the more applications you can have open at once and the faster your computer will run.
However, unlike hard drives, the more RAM you have, the less you can fit on it. Once you reach your maximum capacity, you cannot save any more files unless you delete some things.
When too many applications ask for too much memory at once, your computer has to make a decision: either shut down some of the applications or take away some of the memory they need.
This process is called ‘thrashing’ and can actually slow down your computer as it has to constantly switch between accessing data on the hard drive and in RAM. It is particularly bad when your computer needs to do something quick, like opening a file or sending an email response.
How much ram do I need?
The answer to this question depends on what you use your computer for. If you use your computer for basic tasks like checking emails, browsing the internet, using office software like Word or Excel, then 4-6 GB of ram is enough.
If you use your computer for more advanced tasks like running simulations or data processing, then you will need more than 6 GB of ram. For instance, if you run computational fluid dynamics applications, you will need at least 8 GB of ram for a decent experience.
Therefore, the first thing you should do is determine how much memory your applications require and upgrade to at least that amount of RAM. This may sound simple, but it is the first step in achieving a smooth-running computer.
What happens when my computer runs out of ram?
When your computer runs out of physical memory, the operating system has to figure out what to do.
If there’s not enough room in the cache for everything that needs to be processed, the computer can start swapping parts of the cache with physical memory, or RAM.
This is a dangerous situation, as if there’s no more room in the cache for information, it has to be stored somewhere else. However, there is no more room in physical memory for this information, so it has to be deleted.
The computer then has to go back and re-process everything from the beginning. This is why when you’re processing something and all of a sudden it glitches out and starts from the start, your computer may have run out of ram.
Remove some programs that are open
If you have a lot of programs open, such as browsers with a ton of tabs open, documents or files opened, or things like Discord or Skype open, your computer will use more memory.
Some of these things may be unnecessary, so go through your settings and remove anything you don’t need. Shut down any unnecessary programs and services as well!
By doing this, you reduce the amount of memory the computer needs to function normally. If you can manage to do this before the problem occurs, then you may be able to prevent it from happening.
Check for memory leaks
When you use your computer, small bits of memory get used up and need to be re-used or replaced with new memory.
For example, when you open a new tab in your browser, it needs to store some information in memory so that you can return to it later.
The same goes for applications: They need to have enough memory allocated to them so that they can function properly.
If an application does not properly terminate itself after being closed, it may continue to take up memory until the computer is restarted. This is why some people notice their computers getting slower over time — there are just too many things running in the background taking up memory.
Similar things can happen with the operating system (and other software) depending on how it’s designed.
Buy a new piece of hardware
If your computer is running slow and you have tried cleaning the computer and removing unnecessary software and programs, then it is time to invest in a new piece of hardware.
Computer processors have gone through several generations including Intel chips such as Core i3, i5, and i7. The higher the number, the higher the performance. For example, a Core i5 is better than a Core i3.
The most important component of a computer for running software efficiently is the GPU or graphics processing unit. This can be upgraded without having to upgrade other parts of the computer. If the rest of your computer is fine but the GPU is not up to par, then investing in a new one may help solve your problems!
When your computer runs out of ram, the operating system borrows space from the cpu.
Use a cloud server
In this digital age, we have a lot of things stored in the cloud. From photos to documents and accounts, the cloud is a popular place to store things.
And since everything is becoming more digital, even the way we type has changed.
With the rise of smart phones with touch screens and tablets that can replace laptops, many people have stopped using keyboards and switched to typing via touchscreen or voice commands.
This trend has given rise to cloud-based keyboard services. You no longer need to download an app to your device, you simply log into the service via their website and you are set!
You can then use this service on any device so that you never have to lose your typing style. It is also completely free, although some may offer premium features.
Reduce cache files
The next step is to check your computer’s memory cache. Most computers have a small memory cache in the CPU, and most operating systems use part of this cache for their own purposes.
The size of the cache depends on the model of computer and operating system, but it is usually around 2–8 MB. The size can be determined by special software.
You can check your computer’s memory cache by opening a command prompt (or terminal) and entering “ipconfig /flushdns” then pressing enter. Then wait a few minutes and re-enter the command. If the IP addresses have been refreshed then there is a good chance that the computer has a small memory cache.
Use a RAM disk
In some cases, it may be useful to use your RAM as a hard drive. A RAM disk allows you to use your computer’s volatile memory as if it were a memory stick or hard drive.
This can be useful if you need more storage but don’t have a place to put it. It can also be helpful if you need faster loading times for applications or files.
However, since the RAM is volatile, this will only last as long as there is power in the computer. If the battery dies or the computer is shut off prematurely, all of the data stored in the RAM disk will be lost.
