Windows 10 is a powerful operating system, but over time, you may notice your PC running slower or struggling with multitasking. This is often due to memory (RAM) issues. Fortunately, there are several effective techniques to optimize and improve memory usage on Windows 10. This guide explains the best methods, with step-by-step instructions designed for both beginners and advanced users.
Why is Memory Optimization Important?
Memory, or RAM, temporarily stores data for applications and system processes currently in use. When your PC runs low on memory, it can become sluggish or even freeze. Optimizing memory ensures your system runs smoothly, applications launch faster, and multitasking is more efficient.
Beginner Techniques for Optimizing Memory on Windows 10
1. Close Unnecessary Programs and Browser Tabs
Every program you open consumes memory. If you have many applications or browser tabs open, your memory can become overloaded.
Practical Steps:
– Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
– Check the Processes tab to see which programs are using the most memory.
– Right-click on any unnecessary program and select End Task.
– Close unused browser tabs, especially those with heavy content (videos, games, etc.).
2. Restart Your Computer Regularly
Restarting clears the system memory and stops unnecessary background processes.
– Save your work and restart the PC at least once every few days or if you notice performance drops.
3. Use Built-in Windows Tools
Windows 10 offers tools to manage startup programs and free up memory.
– Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
– Go to the Startup tab and disable programs you don’t need at startup.
For a quick cleanup, use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool:
– Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu, select your drive, and follow the prompts to remove temporary files.
4. Run Glary Utilities for One-Click Memory Optimization
Glary Utilities is a user-friendly suite designed to optimize and maintain your Windows PC. It offers a dedicated memory optimization feature.
How to Use Glary Utilities:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open the program and select 1-Click Maintenance.
– Ensure Memory Optimizer is checked, then click Scan for Issues.
– Once scanning is complete, click Repair Problems to free up memory automatically.
Glary Utilities also includes a real-time Memory Optimizer tool you can access under the Advanced Tools section. This helps you monitor and instantly boost memory usage with one click.
Advanced Techniques for Experienced Users
1. Adjust Virtual Memory Settings
Virtual memory uses part of your hard drive as extra RAM. Increasing the virtual memory can help if you frequently run out of physical RAM.
How to Adjust Virtual Memory:
– Right-click This PC and choose Properties.
– Click Advanced system settings.
– Under the Performance section, click Settings.
– Go to the Advanced tab, and under Virtual memory, click Change.
– Uncheck “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.”
– Select your drive, choose Custom size, and set the Initial and Maximum size (recommend about 1.5 to 3 times your physical RAM).
– Click Set, then OK, and restart your computer.
2. Disable Unnecessary Visual Effects
Windows 10 includes animations and effects that can consume memory.
How to Disable Effects:
– Right-click This PC, choose Properties, then Advanced system settings.
– Click Settings under Performance.
– Select Adjust for best performance, or manually uncheck effects you don’t need.
– Click Apply and OK.
3. Regularly Clean Up and Defragment (For HDDs)
Temporary files, system junk, and fragmented hard drives can impact memory management.
Manual Steps:
– Use Windows Disk Cleanup regularly.
– For HDD users, defragment the drive by typing Defragment and Optimize Drives in the Start menu.
Alternatively, Glary Utilities offers advanced disk cleaning and defragmentation tools under Advanced Tools, making these tasks faster and easier.
4. Manage Background Services
Some background services can be safely disabled to free up memory.
– Open Task Manager and go to the Services tab.
– Research any non-essential services (search online) before stopping them.
– Right-click and choose Stop for any that are not critical.
Tips for Both Beginners and Advanced Users
– Keep your Windows and drivers up to date for improved memory management.
– Consider upgrading your physical RAM if you frequently run out, especially for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
– Schedule regular maintenance using Glary Utilities to automate optimization and keep your system healthy.
Conclusion
Optimizing memory on Windows 10 can be simple or advanced depending on your needs. Beginners can benefit greatly from built-in tools and all-in-one solutions like Glary Utilities, which automates memory optimization and system cleanup. Advanced users have additional options, such as tweaking virtual memory and disabling unnecessary services. By following these practical steps, you can keep your Windows 10 PC running at peak performance, ensuring a smoother and faster computing experience.