1. What is virtual RAM?
Virtual memory, or virtual RAM, is an important operating system function that allows a portion of the hard drive to be used as an extension of physical RAM. In the event of a RAM shortage, the computer system will automatically switch to using space on the hard drive to create more virtual memory, making it possible to operate programs that require more RAM than is available.
2. Advantages of virtual RAM
– Cost savings: Instead of investing in buying more physical RAM, users can take advantage of free virtual RAM from the operating system to meet memory needs.
– Increase hardware durability: Not having to regularly upgrade physical RAM helps minimize hardware wear and damage, thereby extending the life of the computer.
– Easy management: Managing virtual RAM through the operating system is a flexible and easy process, allowing users to adjust capacity according to personal usage requirements.
3. How to calculate virtual RAM capacity
- Initial Size: The initial size should be set equal to the amount of physical RAM to ensure the system has enough memory for basic tasks.
- Maximum Size: Microsoft recommends that the maximum size of virtual RAM should be 1.5 to 3 times the amount of physical RAM.
4. How to set virtual RAM on Windows 11?
Step 1: Access Settings by pressing the Windows + I key combination.
Step 2: Select System and then About at the bottom of the list.
Step 3: Find and select ‘Advanced system settings’.
Step 4: In the Advanced tab > Click on ‘Settings’
Step 5: Go to the Advanced tab in the Performance Options window
Step 6: Next, select ‘Change’ in the Virtual memory section.
Step 7: In the Virtual Memory interface, remove the Automatically manage paging file size for all drives checkbox.
Step 8: Select the drive you want to use to install virtual RAM, usually the drive containing the Windows operating system (for example, drive C:). Enter Custom size, including Initial size and Maximum size.
Note that the initial size should be equivalent to the amount of physical RAM and the maximum size should be 1.5 to 3 times the amount of physical RAM.
Step 9: Press Set then OK to complete the installation.
Step 10: Once you have completed the above steps, click OK to close the windows. Then restart the computer to update the changes.
