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How to Increase Virtual Memory in Windows 11 [2 Ways]
Learn how to boost your PC’s performance
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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If you are noticing a certain lag when running high-end applications or games, it could be that the RAM is full. This is where increasing the virtual memory, or page file size in Windows 11, comes to aid.
Virtual memory or page file is one of the most misunderstood concepts, and many myths surround it. However, no matter what others say or do, a thorough understanding of it is imperative to get the best performance from your computer.
In the following sections, we will walk you through the steps to increase virtual memory in Windows 11 and help you understand its importance and optimal virtual memory size.
What is a good virtual memory size for Windows 11?
Every person uses the computer differently; likewise, the optimal size for virtual memory will also differ. While some run video editing apps or play games which consume high resources, others may use the computer for relatively lighter tasks.
For both these types of users, an excellentvirtual memory sizewouldn’t be the same. While the former would require a higher virtual memory, the latter might be better off with the bare minimum.
Microsoft recommends keeping the virtual memory size between 1.5 to 3 times the available RAM on your computer. So, to set or increase the page file, you first need tocheck the RAM on a Windows 11 system.
Once you have checked the available RAM, you can easily set up the virtual memory or page file in Windows 11. For example, say the available memory is 4 GB, so the minimum virtual memory to be set up is4 x 1.5= 6GBwhile the maximum would be4 x 3 = 12 GB.
Also, the page file is, by default, stored in the system drive, i.e., where Windows is stored, though you can change it.
So, if you have configured the settings such that protected operating system files and hidden items are visible, there would be apagefile.sysentry in theC:drive.
Also, it’s important to mention that Windows can, on its own, take care of the virtual memory or page file. But, if you arefacing freezing or lagging issues in Windows 11, increasing it manually might help.
Quick Tip:
A great workaround to resolve RAM-related issues is to use another capable browser like Opera One.
With this optimized browser, you can improve your overall memory due to the lightweight system impact, secured browsing with a free VPN, or ask questions to the built-in AI.
Opera One
How can I increase the virtual memory and page file values in Windows 11?
1. Using the Settings app
If you are looking to boost system performance, you can quickly increase the page file size through your PC’s built-in settings. You can increase the virtual memory for every disk or partition separately.
1.PressWindows+Sto launch theSearchmenu.
- EnterView advanced system settingsin the text field at the top, and click on the relevant search result that appears.
3.In theAdvancedtab, click on theSettingsbutton underPerformance.
4.Navigate to theAdvancedtab in thePerformance Optionswindow.
5.Next, click onChangeunderVirtual memory.
6.Untick the checkbox forAutomatically manage paging file size for all drives.
- If Windows was managing the virtual memory earlier, it’s best to clear the previously set value and then increase it.
To do that, click on the drive withSystem managedlisted, selectNo paging file, and click onSet.
8. ClickYeson the confirmation prompt that pops up.
9.Now, choose a drive or partition from the list, select theCustom sizeoption and enter the same value underInitial sizeandMaximum sizefields inMB (1GB=1024MB), taking cue from the previous section.
10.Once done, click onSetand then onOKat the bottom to save the changes.
- Next, restart the computer for the changes to come into effect.
2. Using a script
You now know how to increase virtual memory or page file size in Windows 11 and can use it to boost the system’s performance.
But remember that though virtual memory works the same way as the available RAM, it’s certainly not as fast. Please read the next section to understand all about it.
That’s all there’s to increasing virtual memory in Windows 11. Once you have raised it using the steps listed here, the computer should perform better, and applications should stop crashing if that was the case earlier.
Also,check what to do if Windows 11 is not using all the available RAM in Windows 11.
In the comments section below, tell us whether increasing the virtual memory helped your system perform better.
More about the topics:Computer Memory,Windows 11
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
