4 ways to increase RAM on a PC

Increasing RAM is often the first thing that comes to mind when trying to improve computer performance. Most manufacturers allow you to increase RAM if the amount installed by default does not suit you, except on some inexpensive laptops. You can use the free Crucial diagnostic tool to determine what type of RAM you have, the maximum amount your machine can support, and the size of array you should purchase. It is possible to increase the RAM on a laptop as well as on a desktop computer and you can also use a USB stick as RAM to improve the performance of your machine.

Steps

Method 1 of 4: Find your computer's RAM characteristics

Step 1. See if your version of Windows is 32 or 64 bit

Before doing anything, it can be helpful to make sure that your operating system can support an upgrade. Press the Windows and Pause keys at the same time to display basic information about your computer and take a look at the System type value.

If you see "32-bit operating system", it means your version of Windows can only support 4 GB of RAM. In other words, even if your setup may support more RAM, Windows will only recognize 4 GB.
If you see "64-bit operating system", it means your version of Windows can support up to 128 GB (if you are using Windows 10 Home), 2 TB (for Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Education) or 6 GB (for Windows 10 Enterprise or Windows 10 Professional for workstations) of RAM. However, if your setup only supports 32GB and you're using Windows 10 Pro, you won't be able to install more than 32GB of RAM.

Step 2. Open this page in a web browser

Crucial is a major player in the field of RAM. It offers a free and simple tool to determine the maximum RAM capacity of your computer, the number of SIMM or DIMM slots available as well as the most suitable type of RAM. Start by opening the Crucial website on the computer you want to upgrade.

Step 3. Click Scan Computer

This option is in the Find a 100% Compatible Memory or Storage Upgrade section.

If you are not on the computer you want to upgrade, click Select a computer to be able to manually select the manufacturer and the machine model.

Step 4. Accept the terms of use

If you want to read them first, click on the link Terms and conditions. Then click on Scan the computer to download the scan tool to the default location for downloaded files on your machine.

You may need to click Save to start the download.

Step 5. Double-click the downloaded file

This is the CrucialScan.exe file in the default downloaded files folder.

Step 6. Click Yes to run the application

The application will scan your computer and display the result in a new tab in your web browser.

Step 7. Go to the About (model number) section

This is where you will find all the information you will need.

Currently installed memory of your computer: This is the amount of RAM currently installed on your computer. The Location section indicates the size of the RAM module in each slot. For example, if your machine has 6 GB of RAM, you might have a 4 GB strip in the first slot and another 2 GB in the second. The speed of the RAM is also indicated (for example, 1600).

You can click on the amount in each slot to see the exact model and RAM speed. You will also find the product number of the strip you are currently using
Memory capacity of your computer: This section is where you will find the maximum amount of RAM supported by your computer, but also the total number of RAM slots.

Step 8. Click Upgrade Memory

This option displays what exactly you can use to replace the installed RAM and its maximum possible amount. For example, if your computer can support up to 16 GB of RAM and you have 8 GB installed (4 GB in each slot), you can replace the 2 strips with 2 new strips of 8 GB each.

You don't have to add the maximum amount of RAM. For example, if your computer can support up to 16 GB of RAM and you already have 8 GB installed, you can simply replace one of the 4 GB sticks with another 8 GB to get 12 GB of RAM. without touching the other bar

Step 9. Purchase a compatible RAM

Now that you have more information about your computer's RAM, you can purchase compatible strips from any computer hardware store (for example GrosBill) or on the Internet (for example, Crucial, which provided you with the 'scan tool for your RAM). Crucial has been supplying large corporations and individuals for decades, so this is probably the best place to shop. Just scroll down the scan results page to see the recommendations and prices offered.

If you want to use your RAM in dual-channel or triple-channel mode, you will need to purchase a pair of DDR2 or DDR3 sticks of the same size and speed. If you choose bars of a different format, their speed will be limited by the less efficient component.
In general, as long as your motherboard supports DIMMs (which almost all computers have since the 2000s), you won't have to install the same size modules. If your machine has a 4 GB DIMM and a 2 GB DIMM (a common configuration on Acer and Lenovo laptops) and you want to have 12 GB of RAM, you can replace the 2 GB DIMM with another 8 GB. However, you will need to make sure that they have the same number of pins.
In general, it's cheaper to buy RAM online than it is in-store, but buying in the store allows you to chat with a salesperson and make sure you're buying the right component.
For a standard Windows 10 computer, 6 to 16 GB of RAM should be sufficient. If you are using heavy programs (like those used for 3D modeling), you can go up to 32 GB.

Step 10. Take your machine to a professional

Once you have purchased the RAM, you can take your machine to a technician who will install it for you. If you prefer to do it yourself, you can do it either on a laptop or desktop.

Method 2 of 4: Install RAM on a Laptop

Step 1. Shut down your computer

Click on To start up

, then on the power button before choosing Switch off.

Wait for your computer to stop making noise

Step 2. Disconnect all cables and accessories

First, remove the power cable, USB devices, Ethernet cables, and any other accessories connected to your machine.

Step 3. Ground yourself

This step is essential, as it will prevent you from accidentally damaging the internal components of your machine.

Step 4. Remove the bottom panel from the machine

On some laptops, the RAM can be accessed through a specific panel, while on others you will need to remove the entire bottom panel. Consult the manual or search the Internet for instructions on how to do this.

Step 5. Remove the original strips

Since most laptops only have 2 RAM slots, you will need to remove the old card first. Look for a lever or button, or if there isn't one, gently pull on the tabs out of their slots.

Step 6. Take the new strips out of their packaging

RAM sticks should only be handled at the edges to prevent oil, dirt, or skin particles from coming into contact with the circuitry.

Step 7. Install your new RAM

Align the new card with the notch in the RAM slot, then press firmly (if necessary) to secure it. If you are installing a second bar, simply repeat the process.

Unlike desktop memory, modules on laptops always have to be the same, even if they don't have to be the same speed

Step 8. Replace the bottom panel

Next, turn on your computer and press ⊞ Win + Pause to make sure the operating system recognizes your new modules. They should be listed next to the Physical memory heading.

Method 3 of 4: Install RAM on a Desktop Computer

Step 1. Shut down your computer

Open menu To start up

, click the power button

, then select Switch off. If there is a master switch on your machine, make sure it is also off.

Step 2. Disconnect all cables and accessories

This includes the power cable, all USB accessories, Ethernet cables and more.

Step 3. Earth yourself

This will prevent you from accidentally damaging the internal components of your machine with static electricity.

Step 4. Open your computer case

This will allow you to visually examine the RAM slots and installed modules, making it easier to choose the new ones.

Read this to find out how to open the case of your machine

Step 5. Remove the RAM modules if necessary

If you are going to replace the old strips with newer, larger capacity or faster ones, you can quickly remove them by sliding the retaining tabs on either side of the slot (or if there are no brackets., by gently pulling on the bar). All you have to do then is remove the bar (s).

Step 6. Take the new strips out of their packaging

Be sure to handle the strips only by the edges to avoid getting oil, dirt or skin particles on contact areas or circuits.

Step 7. Align the notch in the bar with the key in the slot

RAM can only be inserted one way, which is why you must make sure that the notch on the new strip and the key in the slot are aligned.

Step 8. Press down firmly on the RAM module

Apply even pressure to the bar, without forcing it. In most cases, you will have brackets on each side that will close on their own if properly installed.

Step 9. Install the other RAM module

Make sure the other strip is the same as the first and that both are inserted into a slot of the same color. Most identical slots can be identified by a color code or an indication on the motherboard. It is also possible that there is a diagram in your motherboard manual.

Step 10. Close your case

You can then reconnect all cables, USB peripherals and any accessories that you previously disconnected.

Step 11. Turn on your computer

To find out if your operating system recognizes your RAM, press ⊞ Win + Pause to open the System Properties window. Your RAM should be next to the Physical memory heading.

Method 4 of 4: Use a USB flash drive as RAM

Step 1. Connect your USB drive

If it is not possible to install 4 GB of RAM (or less) on your computer, you can use a USB drive as additional RAM with a feature called ReadyBoost. Insert your USB key or storage space into one of the USB ports on your machine.

On a laptop, the USB slots are usually on the sides. On a desktop computer, you'll find them on the front or back of the case, or on a device like the keyboard.
ReadyBoost only launches when the amount of RAM on your computer can no longer support the load. For this reason, it probably won't be of use to you on a machine with more than 4 GB of RAM. The same is true if you have an SSD because of the speed of this type of media. ReadyBoost will never activate on a computer with an SSD, because the SSD is much faster.

Step 2. Open the Start menu

Click on the Windows logo at the bottom left of your screen.

Step 3. Select File Explorer

Click on the folder icon at the bottom left of the Start window.

Step 4. Click This PC

This option is on the far left of the File Explorer window.

Step 5. Choose your USB drive

Click on the name of the USB drive you just inserted. If this is the only connected external storage space, it will be identified under the symbol "F:".

Step 6. Go to the Computer tab

You will find it in the upper left corner of the window. Click on it to display a toolbar.

Step 7. Select Properties

This is the white box with a red check mark on the far left of the toolbar. Click on it to open the USB flash drive properties window.

Step 8. Click on ReadyBoost

This tab is at the top of the Properties window.

Step 9. Select the Use this device check box

You'll find it in the middle of the page, and it allows Windows to use the maximum storage space available on your USB drive as RAM.

You will not be able to use more than the maximum RAM capacity of your computer.
You may have to wait a few seconds for ReadyBoost to display the USB drive information.