RAM, or random access memory, allows your device to work quickly. It temporarily stores data that your computer’s processor, graphics card and other components need for quick access.
The faster the data can be accessed, the more efficient your system is. That’s why today’s computers need plenty of RAM.
What is RAM?
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the high-speed short-term storage that gives apps and games quick access to data. It saves the CPU, or central processing unit, from having to read the same information again from much slower storage devices like hard drives or solid state drives (SSD).
RAM is filled with data your computer is using at the moment. This could be from a program you have open, or files you are working with. Depending on the size of the programs you have open, they might not all fit in RAM, which means some will get “bumped” out to storage or swap memory (a reserved area on storage that holds RAM spillover).
When this happens, that program will take longer to load back into RAM next time you restart your computer. More RAM can help make this process happen quicker, and will allow you to run more programs at once.
How much RAM do I need?
For most people, 4 GB of RAM is enough. It can handle basic computing tasks like browsing the internet, writing emails, and playing video games with a few tabs open.
But as your computer needs grow, so does the amount of memory you require. Adding more RAM ensures you can play, stream, and work without slow processing speeds or frustrating lag times.
If you’re a gamer, 16GB is a good starting point. It can handle most modern video games at medium settings and will still leave you headroom for other programs. Professionals who use programs like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro should consider 32GB of RAM as a minimum.
How do I know if I need more RAM?
Most people don’t need a lot of RAM to do everyday computing – watching YouTube videos, working on documents, and internet browsing are not memory-intensive activities. However, more RAM is needed for more memory-intensive tasks such as photo and video editing or playing modern video games.
When you start to run out of RAM, your computer may experience slow load times and sluggish performance. It’s also possible for programs to crash or shut themselves down at random.
One easy way to see if your computer is using all of its available RAM is by looking at the System Monitor window (right-click the taskbar, select ‘Task Manager’ and click the ‘Performance’ tab). The section in green, labeled In Use shows the amount of RAM that Windows is currently utilizing for open programs. The section in dark blue, labeled Standby is memory that is either not being used or is temporarily holding files. In this example, the machine is only using
How do I upgrade my RAM?
Whether you’re a casual user wanting smoother gameplay or a professional looking to increase productivity, upgrading your computer’s RAM is an inexpensive and straightforward way to upgrade its performance. However, performing a RAM upgrade isn’t without its risks – opening up your laptop or PC case will likely void the manufacturer’s warranty and potentially damage sensitive internal components if not done properly.
To minimize risk, be sure to power off the device, remove all peripheral devices from it, and use an anti-static wrist strap before you begin. A screwdriver may also be needed depending on the case design to access the RAM slots and release retention clips.
Once you’ve removed the existing RAM, make sure to buy compatible modules that match your motherboard’s specifications in terms of form factor, capacity, and speed. For maximum performance, look for kits that include identical RAM modules in a dual-channel configuration for faster memory bandwidth.