Is your Windows computer running slower than usual or freezing when you open multiple applications? Often, this is due to excessive memory (RAM) usage. Fortunately, there are beginner-friendly steps you can follow to optimize your Windows memory and improve overall performance. Here are 10 proven methods to help you get started.
What is Memory Optimization and Why Does It Matter?
Memory optimization means making the best use of your computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) to ensure it runs smoothly. When system memory gets overloaded, your PC slows down, apps may crash, and multitasking becomes difficult. By following the methods below, you’ll help Windows distribute memory more efficiently and keep your computer responsive.
1. Restart Your PC Regularly
Why does restarting help? When you reboot your PC, all temporary files and memory caches are cleared. This refreshes your system and frees up memory that may have been stuck with closed or frozen apps.
How to do it:
Simply click Start, select Power, then choose Restart. Try doing this once a day if you notice slowdowns.
2. Close Unnecessary Applications and Browser Tabs
Why does this work? Every running app and browser tab uses some amount of RAM. Having too many open at once can quickly eat up your system’s memory.
How to do it:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Check the list of running applications and close those you don’t need. For web browsers, keep only essential tabs open.
3. Use Glary Utilities for Automatic Memory Cleanup
How can Glary Utilities help? Glary Utilities offers a Memory Optimizer tool that automatically finds and frees unused memory, making it an excellent choice for beginners. It also lets you schedule automatic cleanups, so you don’t have to remember to do it manually.
How to do it:
Download and install Glary Utilities. Open the program, go to the “Memory Optimizer” feature, and follow the on-screen instructions to clean up memory instantly or set up automatic optimization.
4. Disable Startup Programs You Don’t Need
Why disable startup programs? Many apps set themselves to run as soon as you turn on your PC, using up memory from the start.
How to do it:
Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab, and right-click to disable programs you don’t frequently use. Glary Utilities also provides a Startup Manager that gives you a beginner-friendly interface to easily disable or delay startup items.
5. Increase Virtual Memory (Paging File)
What is virtual memory? Virtual memory uses some space on your hard drive to act as additional RAM, helping when physical memory is low.
How to do it:
Right-click This PC, choose Properties, then select Advanced System Settings. Under Performance, click Settings, go to the Advanced tab, and click Change under Virtual Memory. Follow the prompts to let Windows manage it automatically or set a custom size (recommended: 1.5 times your physical RAM).
6. Uninstall Unnecessary Software
Why remove unused programs? Apps you don’t use can run background processes that consume RAM.
How to do it:
Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program. Review the list and remove anything you don’t need. Glary Utilities can also help by listing “rarely used programs” for quick cleanup.
7. Scan for Malware and Viruses
How does malware affect memory? Malicious software often runs hidden processes that eat up memory resources without your knowledge.
How to do it:
Use a trusted antivirus tool to scan your computer. Glary Utilities has a built-in malware scanner to help you find and remove threats quickly.
8. Keep Windows and Drivers Updated
Why update regularly? Updates often contain memory management improvements and bug fixes that help Windows run more efficiently.
How to do it:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click Check for updates. For drivers, use Device Manager or Glary Utilities’ Driver Updater to ensure all device drivers are up to date.
9. Turn Off Visual Effects
Why adjust visual effects? Fancy animations and effects look nice but use extra memory that can slow down your system.
How to do it:
Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, go to the Advanced tab, click Settings under Performance, and choose “Adjust for best performance” or manually uncheck effects you don’t need.
10. Monitor Memory Usage Regularly
How can monitoring help? Keeping an eye on your RAM helps you spot issues before they become serious slowdowns.
How to do it:
Open Task Manager and check the Performance tab for real-time memory usage. Glary Utilities also offers easy-to-read memory usage charts and notifications if your system is running low on RAM.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Windows PC Fast and Responsive
Optimizing memory on a Windows PC doesn’t require advanced skills. By restarting regularly, closing unused apps, using tools like Glary Utilities, and following the steps above, you’ll keep your computer running at its best. These beginner-friendly techniques will help you enjoy a smoother, more efficient Windows experience every day.