How to increase RAM on a laptop

Every second PC or laptop owner eventually encounters “slowdowns” in the operation of the device. One way to improve performance is to increase the amount of RAM. We tell you how to do this.

Content

  1. 1.Installing a new RAM stick
  2. 2.Alternative methods

Installing a new RAM stick

The most banal, but no less effective method is to buy and install a new RAM strip or replace the current one, provided that it is not soldered.

It is important not to make a mistake with the choice. RAM strips differ in type, volume, speed, so not every model will suit your device. If the parameters do not match, you can not count on stable operation. And in the worst case scenario, the laptop will refuse to start at all.

The best way to find the information you need is to use third-party software. For example, CPU-Z . To view information about the volume, frequency, and type of memory, simply launch the utility and open the Memory tab. All data about the components is also listed on the website of the RAM manufacturer and your laptop.

Remember that two modules will provide better performance than one with the same amount of memory. In simple terms, install two 8GB sticks instead of one 16GB.
As for the replacement itself, the procedure is not the most difficult, although it does require a certain amount of skill and caution. The order of actions may differ on different laptops, but usually looks like this:
  • Disconnect the gadget from the power supply and remove the battery;
  • Unscrew the screws and remove the back panel;
  • Carefully push back the latches on the slots and remove the old RAM stick;
  • Carefully insert the new module and secure it;
  • Put the laptop back together.

Now all that remains is to turn on the device and check its functionality.

Alternative methods

In addition to the main method, there are several alternatives, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

BIOS

This method involves increasing RAM through BIOS settings. To do this, you need to:

  • When you start your laptop, press the key responsible for calling the BIOS. Usually, it is Del or F8;
  • Go to the section with integrated devices and find the item VGA Sharing Memory or something similar in name;
  • Within the acceptable range, specify the new RAM value;
  • Save the changes and reboot the device.
This method is quite dangerous, as it can lead to the failure of the RAM. Therefore, make sure in advance that you are doing it correctly.

Flash drive

A regular flash drive can also help increase RAM. The main thing is to make sure that your gadget supports this option. The equipment must meet the following criteria:

  • Operating system Windows 7 and newer;
  • The flash drive capacity should be no less than 1 GB, or better yet, twice the current RAM size;
  • The operating speed of the removable card is 3 MB/s or more;
  • Formatting a flash drive in the NTFS standa

The procedure for expanding RAM via a flash drive is as follows:

  • Connect the prepared flash drive to a free USB port;
  • Open “My Computer” and then right-click on the removable storage device and select “Properties”;
  • In the Ready Boost tab, check the box next to “Provide this device”;
  • Select the desired amount of RAM to expand, click Apply and confirm your choice.

The method is quite simple, but its effectiveness is much inferior to increasing the RAM by using a new bar.

HDD

The hard drive can also be used to increase the amount of RAM. This is achieved through a dedicated area called virtual memory, which is activated when the base RAM is insufficient.

Procedure:

  • In the “Advanced system settings” section, open the “Advanced” tab and in the “Performance” section, click the “Options” button;
  • In the “Advanced” tab, click “Edit”.
  • After this, all that remains is to choose one of the options provided.