Author: William Johnson

Upgrading your computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways to boost its overall performance. If your desktop or laptop feels sluggish, struggles with multitasking, or frequently freezes when running demanding applications, adding more RAM can make a significant difference. This guide will walk you through the entire process of how to upgrade RAM on both desktop computers and laptops, ensuring you select the correct memory and install it safely.

Why Upgrade RAM?

RAM is your computer’s short-term memory, used to store data that the CPU needs to access quickly. The more RAM you have, the more applications and processes your computer can handle simultaneously without slowing down. Here’s why you might consider a RAM upgrade:

• Improved Multitasking: Run more applications simultaneously without lag.
• Faster Application Loading: Programs open and respond quicker.
• Smoother Gaming: Reduces stuttering and improves frame rates in demanding games.
• Enhanced Content Creation: Speeds up video editing, graphic design, and 3D rendering.
• Reduced Swapping: Prevents your computer from relying heavily on slower storage drives (SSD/HDD) as virtual memory.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Upgrade RAM

The process of upgrading RAM varies slightly between desktops and laptops, primarily due to accessibility. However, the core principles of identification and installation remain similar.

Step 1: Determine Your Current RAM and System Compatibility

This is arguably the most critical step. Installing incompatible RAM can lead to system instability or prevent your computer from booting.

• Identify Your Current RAM (Type and Speed):
  • Windows:
    1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
    2. Go to the “Performance” tab.
    3. Click on “Memory” (or RAM).
    4. You’ll see details like RAM capacity, type (e.g., DDR3, DDR4, DDR5), speed (e.g., 2400 MHz, 3200 MHz), and the number of used vs. available slots. Note down the Speed and Form Factor (DIMM for desktops, SO-DIMM for laptops).
  • macOS:
    1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner.
    2. Select “About This Mac.”
    3. In the overview window, click on “Memory.” This will show you the installed RAM type, speed, and whether it’s user-upgradeable.
  • Using Third-Party Tools (Recommended for Detailed Info): Tools like CPU-Z (Windows) or the free version of Speccy (Windows) provide incredibly detailed information about your motherboard, CPU, and existing RAM modules, including timings and voltage. Crucial’s System Scanner is also excellent for automatically identifying compatible RAM for your specific system.
• Check Motherboard/System Maximum RAM Capacity and Supported Speed:
  • For Desktops: Look up your motherboard’s model number (often printed on the board itself, or found using CPU-Z) on the manufacturer’s website. The specifications page will detail the maximum RAM capacity, the number of RAM slots, and the supported RAM types (DDR3, DDR4, DDR5) and speeds (MHz).
  • For Laptops: Look up your laptop’s exact model number on the manufacturer’s support website. They will have specifications for maximum RAM and the type it supports. Some older laptops might have RAM soldered directly to the motherboard, making an upgrade impossible or very difficult. Always check if your laptop has accessible RAM slots.
• Key RAM Specifications to Match:
  • Type: DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5. You cannot mix different DDR types.
  • Form Factor: DIMM for desktops, SO-DIMM for laptops. They are physically different.
  • Speed (MHz): Ideally, match the speed of your existing RAM for optimal compatibility. If you install faster RAM alongside slower RAM, all modules will operate at the speed of the slowest one. If installing all new RAM, get the fastest speed supported by your motherboard/CPU.
  • Capacity: Decide how much RAM you want. Common upgrade paths are 8GB to 16GB, or 16GB to 32GB.
  • ECC vs. Non-ECC: Most consumer systems use Non-ECC RAM. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM is typically for servers and workstations. Do not mix them.
  • Registered (RDIMM) vs. Unbuffered (UDIMM): Similar to ECC, Registered RAM is for servers. Most consumer systems use Unbuffered RAM.

Step 2: Purchase the Correct RAM

Based on your research from Step 1, acquire the new RAM modules.

• Matching Pairs (for Dual-Channel): For best performance, especially on modern systems, buy RAM in matched pairs (e.g., two 8GB sticks rather than one 16GB stick if your motherboard supports dual-channel memory, which most do). This allows the CPU to access memory in parallel, boosting speed.
• Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known and reputable RAM manufacturers like Crucial, Kingston, Corsair, G.Skill, Samsung, and Hynix.
• Consider Kit Purchases: Often, buying RAM in kits (e.g., “16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3200MHz Kit”) ensures the modules are tested to work together perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare for Installation (Crucial Safety Steps)

Before opening your computer, safety is paramount to prevent damage to components from static electricity.

1. Backup Important Data: While a RAM upgrade is generally safe, always have a recent backup of your critical files, just in case.
2. Gather Tools: You’ll typically need a Phillips head screwdriver. For laptops, sometimes a smaller precision screwdriver set is required.
3. Power Down Completely:
   • Shut down your computer from the operating system.
   • Unplug the power cable from the wall outlet or the back of your desktop PC.
   • For Laptops: Unplug the power adapter. If possible, remove the laptop battery (some modern laptops have internal batteries that aren’t easily removable, so just unplugging the power adapter will suffice).
4. Disconnect Peripherals: Unplug all external devices like USB drives, keyboard, mouse, monitor cables, etc.
5. Discharge Residual Power:
   • For Desktops: Press and hold the power button on the computer case for 10-15 seconds. This helps drain any remaining power from the system.
   • For Laptops: Do the same, if applicable, or simply wait a few minutes after disconnecting power.
6. Ground Yourself (Anti-Static Measures): This is vital. Static electricity can permanently damage sensitive components like RAM and your motherboard.
   • Anti-Static Wrist Strap: The best method is to wear an anti-static wrist strap connected to a grounded metal object (like a bare metal part of your desktop case or a grounded pipe).
   • Touch Bare Metal: Alternatively, frequently touch an unpainted metal part of your desktop case (or the laptop’s metal chassis) to discharge any static buildup from your body. Do this before touching any internal components.
   • Avoid Carpets: Work on a hard, non-static surface. Avoid working on carpeted floors.

Step 4: Access Your Computer’s RAM Slots

This step differs significantly between desktops and laptops.

• For Desktop PCs:
  1. Place your desktop case on its side on a clean, flat surface.
  2. Use your screwdriver to remove the side panel (usually the left side when looking at the front of the PC). Most cases have thumb screws or a couple of Phillips head screws at the back.
  3. Once the side panel is off, you’ll see the motherboard. The RAM slots (long, narrow slots, typically black, blue, or white) are usually located next to the CPU cooler.
• For Laptops:
  1. Carefully flip your laptop over onto a soft, clean cloth to protect the screen and chassis.
  2. Most laptops have a removable bottom panel secured by several small screws. Use your precision screwdriver to remove all screws. Keep track of which screws go where, as some might be different lengths.
  3. Gently pry off the bottom panel. You might need a plastic spudger or an old credit card to help unclip it without scratching the case.
  4. Locate the RAM slots. They are usually covered by a metal shield or are directly visible, often near the battery or fan. Some laptops have one easily accessible slot and another hidden under the keyboard or integrated directly into the motherboard.

Step 5: Install the New RAM

This is where the actual upgrade happens. Handle RAM modules by their edges, avoiding touching the gold contacts.

• Remove Old RAM (If Replacing):
  1. Locate the small clips (or “ejectors”) at each end of the RAM stick.
  2. Gently push these clips outwards. The RAM stick should pop up slightly.
  3. Carefully pull the RAM stick straight out of the slot. Place it in an anti-static bag or on a non-conductive surface for safekeeping.
• Install New RAM:
  1. Align the new RAM module with the slot. Notice the notch (or “key”) on the RAM stick’s gold contacts and the corresponding protrusion in the RAM slot. These must align correctly. You cannot insert RAM backward.
  2. Place the RAM stick into the slot, holding it firmly by its top edges.
  3. Apply even, firm pressure downwards on both ends of the RAM stick simultaneously. You should hear distinct clicks as the clips on the sides lock into place, securing the module. If it doesn’t click, try again. Do not force it if it doesn’t align correctly.
  4. If installing multiple sticks, repeat the process. Refer to your motherboard or laptop manual for the recommended slot configuration, especially for dual-channel (often involves skipping a slot, e.g., slots 1 and 3, or 2 and 4).

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

After installing the RAM, it’s time to put your computer back together and verify the upgrade.

1. Reassemble Your Computer:
   • For Laptops: Carefully reattach the bottom panel, ensuring all clips engage, and screw it back into place.
   • For Desktops: Reattach the side panel and secure it with screws.
2. Reconnect Peripherals: Plug back in your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cable.
3. Power On and Monitor: Turn on your computer.
   • First Boot: The first boot after a RAM upgrade might take slightly longer than usual. The system is recognizing the new memory. You might see a black screen for a few extra seconds, or a message about “Memory changed.” This is normal.
   • No Boot/Beeps: If your computer doesn’t boot, emits a series of beeps, or shows a black screen, immediately power off. This usually indicates an issue with RAM seating or incompatibility. Re-check Step 1 (compatibility) and Step 5 (seating). Remove and reinsert the modules, ensuring they are firmly clicked into place.
4. Verify New RAM in OS:
   • Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, go to the “Performance” tab, and click “Memory.” Verify the new total RAM capacity.
   • macOS: Click the Apple menu > “About This Mac.” Verify the new total RAM capacity.

Troubleshooting Common RAM Upgrade Issues

• Computer Beeps or Doesn’t Boot: This is the most common issue.
  • Loose RAM: The most likely culprit. Power off, unplug, discharge, then firmly re-seat all RAM sticks. Ensure they click into place.
  • Incompatible RAM: Double-check that the RAM type (DDR3/4/5), form factor (DIMM/SO-DIMM), and speed are correct for your system.
  • Faulty RAM: Though rare, a new RAM stick could be defective. If you bought multiple sticks, try booting with only one at a time to isolate the issue.
• Computer Boots But Shows Incorrect RAM Amount:
  • This often means one of the newly installed sticks isn’t properly seated or is faulty. Follow the steps above to reseat/test individual modules.
• System Instability/Blue Screens (BSODs) After Upgrade:
  • Often points to RAM incompatibility (even if the type is correct, timing or voltage issues can occur).
  • Run a memory diagnostic tool (e.g., Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool or MemTest86 for a more thorough test) to check for errors.
  • Ensure your BIOS/UEFI firmware is up to date, as updates can improve RAM compatibility.

Conclusion

Upgrading RAM is an excellent way to breathe new life into an aging computer or enhance the performance of a newer one. While it involves opening your computer’s case, by carefully following the steps for identifying compatible memory, taking necessary safety precautions, and correctly installing the modules, you can successfully perform this upgrade yourself. The immediate improvement in responsiveness and multitasking capabilities will be a rewarding experience.

Safe Mode is a crucial troubleshooting tool that boots Windows with only essential drivers and services. This clean environment helps isolate and fix issues like malware, driver conflicts, or software glitches that prevent normal startup. Here’s how to access Safe Mode whether your PC is working or not.

Why Use Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is great because it:

• Minimizes conflicts: Loads just core system files, avoiding problematic drivers or apps.
• Isolates problems: If an issue disappears in Safe Mode, you know a non-essential program or driver is causing it.
• Enables fixes: Uninstall software, run antivirus scans, perform restores, repair files, or reset settings.

Safe Mode Options Explained

• Safe Mode: Basic mode without network.
• Safe Mode with Networking: Includes network drivers for internet access.
• Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Boots to command line only, for advanced users.

Method 1: Use System Configuration (msconfig) — When Windows Works

1. Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Boot tab.
3. Check Safe boot.
4. Choose the type:
   • Minimal = Standard Safe Mode
   • Network = Safe Mode with Networking
   • Alternate shell = Safe Mode with Command Prompt
5. Click Apply, then OK.
6. Restart when prompted. Your PC will boot into Safe Mode.

To exit Safe Mode: Repeat these steps and uncheck Safe boot, then restart.

Method 2: Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) — When Windows Won’t Boot

1. From Sign-in Screen:

• At the sign-in screen, hold Shift and click Power > Restart.
• Keep holding Shift until the recovery menu appears.

1. Force WinRE If Windows Fails to Start:

• Power on and force shutdown during boot three times (hold power button when you see Windows logo).
• On the third try, let it boot to WinRE.

In WinRE:

1. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
2. After reboot, press:
   • 4 or F4 for Safe Mode
   • 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking
   • 6 or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Windows will boot into the selected Safe Mode.

To exit: Just restart normally.

Method 3: Use a Bootable USB (For Extreme Cases)

If WinRE isn’t accessible:

1. Use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool on another PC to create a bootable Windows USB.
2. Boot your PC from this USB (check your PC’s boot menu key, e.g., F12).
3. At Windows Setup, click Repair your computer.
4. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings and follow Method 2 steps.

What to Do in Safe Mode

• Uninstall problematic software/drivers via Settings > Apps or Control Panel.
• Run antivirus scans for malware removal.
• Use System Restore to roll back changes.
• Update or roll back drivers in Device Manager.
• Check disk integrity with chkdsk /f /r in an Admin Command Prompt.
• Repair system files with sfc /scannow.

By using these methods, you can reliably boot Windows into Safe Mode and troubleshoot most issues blocking normal operation.

Windows 10 includes a valuable feature called System Restore, which lets you roll your system back to a previous state using what’s called a restore point. These points capture system files, drivers, registry settings, and installed apps, giving you a recovery fallback if something goes wrong.

What is a Restore Point? A restore point is a snapshot of your system’s configuration at a specific time. It doesn’t touch your personal files (like documents or photos), but it can undo problematic system changes.

When Should You Create One?

• Before installing new software or drivers
• Before making system tweaks (e.g., registry edits)
• Before a major Windows update
• Periodically, just in case

How to Create a Restore Point in Windows 10

Step 1: Open System Properties

• Method A: Type “create a restore point” in the Windows search bar and select the result.
• Method B: Right-click Start > System > Click “System protection” in the left pane.

Step 2: Ensure Protection is On

• In the “System Protection” tab, check that protection is turned on for your system drive (usually C:).
• If it’s off:
  1. Select the drive > Click “Configure…”
  2. Choose “Turn on system protection”
  3. Set Max Usage to 5-10% and click OK

Step 3: Click “Create…”

• Click the “Create…” button at the bottom of the tab.

Step 4: Name the Restore Point

• Enter a descriptive name (e.g., “Before driver update”). Date/time are auto-added.
• Click Create.

Step 5: Wait for Confirmation

• Windows will take a few minutes.
• Once done, you’ll see “The restore point was created successfully.”

How to Use a Restore Point

1. Open “System Properties” > “System Protection” tab
2. Click “System Restore…”
3. Follow the wizard:
   • Click Next
   • Select a restore point
   • Optionally scan for affected programs
   • Click Next > Finish > Yes to confirm
4. Windows will restart and apply the selected restore point.

Tips & Warnings

• Not a full backup: Still back up personal files separately.
• Disk space: Ensure enough space for restore points.
• Safe mode: If needed, perform from Safe Mode.
• Plug in your laptop: Prevent power loss during the process.

By manually creating restore points, you’re building safety nets into your system workflow—a smart move for any user who customizes or frequently updates their PC.

A dead Ethernet connection on your Windows 10 PC can be incredibly frustrating—especially if you rely on it for reliable speeds during work, gaming, or streaming. While Wi-Fi has its perks, nothing quite beats the consistency of a good wired connection. So when Ethernet suddenly stops working, it can feel like hitting a wall. The good news? In most cases, the fix is within reach. Let’s walk through it.

Why Is My Ethernet Not Working?

Several things can go wrong, ranging from a simple unplugged cable to something deeper under the hood like corrupted drivers or misconfigured settings. Here’s a quick rundown of common causes:

• Loose or Damaged Cable
• Faulty Port (Computer or Router)
• Router/Modem Glitches
• Disabled Ethernet Adapter
• Outdated or Corrupt Drivers
• Incorrect IP or DNS Settings
• Firewall or Antivirus Interference
• Temporary Windows Bugs
• Actual Hardware Failure

Step-by-Step Fixes for Ethernet Issues

Start simple and work your way up. Here we go:

1. Check Physical Connections

Sometimes, it’s just the cable. Double-check that it’s snugly connected on both ends. Look for damage. Try another Ethernet cable if you have one handy. You can also test the same cable with another device to see if the issue is with your PC or the cable/router itself.

2. Restart Everything (Seriously)

Power down your computer. Unplug your router and modem. Wait a full minute. Plug the modem in first, then the router, and finally turn your PC back on. Often, a fresh reboot of all devices clears up connectivity issues.

3. Use the Windows Network Troubleshooter

Right-click the Start button > Settings > Network & Internet > “Network troubleshooter” (under “Advanced network settings”). Follow the prompts. It doesn’t always solve the issue, but it can catch low-hanging fruit.

4. Make Sure Ethernet Is Enabled

Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Change adapter options. If your Ethernet adapter icon is greyed out, right-click and select “Enable.” If it’s already enabled, try disabling and re-enabling it.

5. Update or Reinstall Ethernet Drivers

• Open Device Manager.
• Expand “Network adapters.”
• Right-click your Ethernet device > Update driver > Search automatically.
• If that doesn’t help, visit your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s site and download the latest LAN driver manually.
• Still stuck? Try uninstalling the driver in Device Manager and restarting your PC—Windows should reinstall a generic version.

6. Reset Network Settings

Sometimes, a clean slate helps:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Network reset.
• Click “Reset now.”
• Your PC will reboot, and you’ll need to reconnect to networks again.

7. Use Command Prompt Fixes

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and enter these commands one by one:

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /renew

ipconfig /flushdns

Then close the window and test your Ethernet again.

8. Check Firewall or Antivirus

Temporarily disable third-party firewalls or antivirus software to see if they’re causing interference. If the Ethernet works while they’re off, you’ll need to add exceptions or adjust settings.

9. Check BIOS/UEFI (Advanced)

Sometimes the onboard Ethernet controller is disabled at the firmware level:

• Reboot and enter BIOS (usually Del, F2, or F10).
• Look for network or LAN settings.
• Make sure it’s set to “Enabled.”
• Save and exit.

When to Get Help

If none of the above works:

• Call your ISP: They can run diagnostics from their end.
• Check for hardware issues: A repair tech can test your Ethernet port. Or consider using a USB-to-Ethernet adapter as a backup.

A Quick Real-World Example

One night my Ethernet just gave up. My Wi-Fi worked, so I knew it wasn’t the internet itself. I checked cables, rebooted—nothing. Finally, I updated the Ethernet driver (thanks, Intel’s website), and just like that, it lit up. It turned out a recent Windows update had corrupted it. Drivers: often overlooked, but absolutely critical.

Final Thoughts

Ethernet not working on Windows 10? It’s usually fixable. Go step-by-step. Be methodical. Start with cables and adapters, then move through Windows settings, drivers, and deeper resets if needed. Most of the time, it’s not as bad as it seems.

Removing stubborn or corrupted printer drivers in Windows can resolve various printing issues and help with fresh installations. Here’s how to completely uninstall printer drivers in Windows.

Why Uninstall Printer Drivers?

• Fix print errors from corrupted drivers.
• Prevent conflicts when installing a new printer.
• Clear failed installations or unused drivers.

Method 1: Remove from Windows Settings

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners (Windows 11) or Devices > Printers & scanners (Windows 10).
3. Click on the printer > Select Remove device > Confirm.

Method 2: Delete from Print Server Properties

1. Press Windows + R, type printui.exe /s /t2, press Enter.
2. In the Drivers tab, select the printer driver.
3. Click Remove… > Choose Remove driver and driver package > Confirm.

Method 3: Uninstall Manufacturer Software

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps (Win11) or Apps > Apps & features (Win10).
2. Find the printer software (e.g., HP Smart, Epson Connect).
3. Click Uninstall > Follow prompts.

Method 4: Use Device Manager

1. Open Device Manager (Right-click Start > Device Manager).
2. Expand Printers or Print queues.
3. Right-click the printer > Select Uninstall device.
4. Check Delete the driver software for this device > Confirm.
5. Restart your PC.

Method 5: Clean Remaining Files (Advanced)

Only do this if you are experienced and have backups.

Delete Driver Files:

• Navigate to:
  • C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers\x64 or w32x86
  • C:\ProgramData\[Manufacturer Folder]
• Delete folders linked to the uninstalled printer.

Clean Registry Entries:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, press Enter.
2. Back up your registry (File > Export).
3. Delete entries under:
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Environments\Windows x64\Drivers
   • …\Print\Printers
   • …\Print\Monitors (related entries only)

Final Step: Restart

Always restart your PC after uninstalling drivers to ensure all components are properly removed.

By following these methods, you can fully uninstall printer drivers in Windows, ensuring a clean system ready for fresh installations.

If your Windows 11 PC starts slowing down during heavy multitasking or memory-intensive tasks, increasing your virtual memory can help. Virtual memory—also known as a paging file—acts as a backup to your system’s physical RAM. It uses a portion of your hard drive or SSD to temporarily store data when your RAM is full.

I’ve personally used this method to improve system responsiveness on devices with low RAM, especially during video editing, gaming, or running multiple apps simultaneously. This guide will walk you through how to increase virtual memory in Windows 11 in a safe and effective way.

What Is Virtual Memory in Windows?

Virtual memory allows your PC to compensate for RAM shortages by temporarily moving inactive data from RAM to a reserved space on your storage device. This space is called the paging file or swap file.

When configured properly, virtual memory can:

• Prevent system slowdowns and freezing

• Improve multitasking performance

• Allow larger applications to run smoothly

However, it’s important to set it manually and not rely solely on Windows’ automatic settings, especially on low-RAM systems.

How to Check Your Current Virtual Memory Settings

Before increasing it, you should first check the existing configuration.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S and search for Advanced System Settings.
2. Click on View advanced system settings.
3. In the System Properties window, under the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Performance section.
4. In the Performance Options window, go to the Advanced tab.
5. Look under Virtual memory and click on Change.
   

Here, you’ll see the current size and location of the paging file.

Step-by-Step: How to Increase Virtual Memory in Windows 11

Now that you’re in the Virtual Memory settings window, follow these steps to increase the paging file size.

Step 1: Uncheck Automatic Management

By default, Windows manages the paging file size automatically.

1. Uncheck the box “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives”.
   

This allows you to manually configure the settings.

Step 2: Select the Drive

1. Click on the drive where Windows is installed (usually C:).
   
2. Select the option Custom size.
   

Step 3: Set Initial and Maximum Size

Now you’ll need to set the Initial size and Maximum size (in MB).

Recommended Rule of Thumb:

• Initial Size (MB): Equal to your installed RAM (in MB).
  
• Maximum Size (MB): 1.5 to 3 times your RAM.
  

Example for 8 GB RAM:

• 8 GB = 8192 MB
  
• Initial Size: 8192 MB
  
• Maximum Size: 16384 MB (or up to 24576 MB if needed)

Note: Always leave enough free space on your drive. Do not allocate your entire storage to virtual memory.

Step 4: Click Set and Apply

1. After entering the values:
   • Click Set
   • Then click OK

2. You’ll be prompted to restart your computer to apply the changes.
   

Restart to activate the new virtual memory settings.

Optional: Move Paging File to Another Drive

If your system has multiple drives, especially an SSD + HDD setup, you can place the paging file on the faster drive (typically the SSD) for better performance.

Steps:

1. In the Virtual Memory window, select a non-system drive.
2. Set custom values as described above.
3. Select your system drive and choose No paging file to disable it there.
4. Click Set, then OK, and restart.

Important: Only do this if your secondary drive is faster or less occupied. Avoid placing the paging file on external or USB drives.

How to Confirm That Virtual Memory Has Increased

After restarting:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Performance tab.
3. Click on Memory.
4. Look for Committed memory. This shows used + available virtual memory.
   

If the available committed memory has increased, your changes have taken effect.

When to Increase Virtual Memory

You should consider increasing virtual memory if:

• You regularly see “Low Memory” warnings
• Apps crash when RAM usage is high
• You’re running large apps (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, video editors)
• Your PC has 4 GB or 8 GB of RAM and you multitask heavily
  

In my experience, virtual memory acts as a helpful safety net on low-RAM systems and improves stability during demanding workloads.

When Not to Rely on Virtual Memory Alone

While virtual memory helps, it is not a replacement for RAM. It’s significantly slower than physical memory, especially if stored on a mechanical hard drive.

If your system frequently hits its memory limits, consider:

• Upgrading RAM (if possible)
  
• Disabling startup apps
• Cleaning temporary files
• Using lightweight alternatives to memory-heavy applications

Tips for Managing Virtual Memory Wisely

• Avoid setting maximum size too high; it may waste drive space or cause system instability.
• Don’t disable virtual memory entirely, even if you have 16 GB+ RAM—some apps and processes still rely on it.
• Always keep at least 1.5 times your RAM available in virtual memory for smoother performance.
  

Troubleshooting: If Virtual Memory Is Not Increasing

If you face issues applying changes:

• Run Disk Cleanup to free up space.
  
• Ensure you’re logged in with administrator privileges.
  
• Check for disk errors using chkdsk in Command Prompt.
  
• Temporarily disable antivirus software (if it blocks system changes).

Final Thoughts

Learning how to increase virtual memory in Windows 11 is a practical skill that can boost your system’s performance and stability, especially if you’re on a low-RAM PC or laptop. While it won’t match the speed of real RAM, it’s a reliable backup that helps prevent slowdowns, crashes, and freezes.

I’ve used this method many times on older machines and laptops with limited memory. As long as you follow the sizing guidelines and monitor your system performance, virtual memory can be a valuable tool in your Windows 11 optimization toolkit.

Viruses and malware can severely disrupt your Windows PC’s performance and compromise your data security. While many users rely on antivirus software, there are times when manual removal is necessary—especially if the virus has disabled your security tools or is deeply embedded. This guide explains how to remove a virus from Windows manually, offering a detailed, reliable, and safe approach to reclaim your system.

Understanding What a Virus Does to Your Windows PC

A virus is a malicious program that can:

• Slow down your system.
• Display unwanted pop-ups or ads.
• Steal personal information.
• Corrupt or delete files.
• Disable antivirus or system utilities.
• Cause system crashes or unexpected behavior.

Manual removal requires patience and caution to avoid damaging your system further.

Before You Begin: Preparation and Precautions

• Back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
• Disconnect from the internet to prevent data leakage.
• Work under an administrator account.
• Take note of suspicious behavior or error messages.
• Have access to a clean USB or external drive in case you need rescue tools.

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking

Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and disables many startup programs, often preventing malware from running.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
3. Check Safe boot and select Network.
4. Click OK and restart your PC.

Alternatively, you can:

• Hold Shift and click Restart from the Start menu.
• Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• Press 5 or F5 to select Safe Mode with Networking.

Step 2: Identify Suspicious Programs and Processes

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look under the Processes tab for unusual programs consuming resources.
3. Right-click suspicious processes and select Open file location to verify their origin.
4. Research unknown processes online for legitimacy.

Step 3: Disable Suspicious Startup Programs

Malware often configures itself to run at startup.

1. Open Task Manager and go to the Startup tab.
2. Disable programs that are unknown or suspicious by selecting and clicking Disable.
3. Alternatively, use msconfig (Windows + R → msconfig) and check Startup tab.

Step 4: Delete Temporary Files

Deleting temporary files removes malware remnants and frees space.

1. Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
2. Select all files and folders and delete them.
3. Also, clean system temporary files using Disk Cleanup (search in Start menu).

Step 5: Scan and Remove Malware from System Folders

Manually check and delete suspicious files.

• Navigate to typical malware hiding places like:
  • C:\Windows\System32\
  • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming\
  • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\
• Sort files by date or size to identify recent or large unfamiliar files.
• Delete files only if you are sure they are malicious. Research filenames before deleting.

Step 6: Use Command Prompt to Remove Persistent Malware

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search “cmd,” right-click, Run as administrator).
2. Use commands to delete files or terminate malware processes:
   • To kill a process: taskkill /f /im [processname.exe]
   • To delete files: del /f /s /q [filepath]

Use this carefully to avoid deleting system files.

Step 7: Check and Clean the Windows Registry

Viruses often add entries to the registry to run on startup.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to these paths:
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
3. Look for suspicious entries referencing malware files.
4. Right-click and delete any entries that seem malicious.

Warning: Be cautious editing the registry; back it up before changes.

Step 8: Reset Your Web Browsers

Malware often hijacks browsers by changing homepage or adding extensions.

1. Open each browser (Edge, Chrome, Firefox).
2. Reset settings to default or remove unknown extensions manually.
3. Clear cache and cookies.

Step 9: Update Windows and Install Security Patches

Keeping your system updated patches vulnerabilities.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install all updates.

Step 10: Perform a Full System Scan with Windows Defender or Malwarebytes

Even after manual cleanup, scanning ensures residual threats are removed.

• Open Windows Security and run a Full scan.
• Alternatively, install Malwarebytes and perform a deep scan.

Step 11: Restore Your System if Necessary

If infection persists:

• Use System Restore to revert to a clean state.
• Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
• Select a restore point before the infection date.

Step 12: Prevent Future Infections

• Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.
• Keep your antivirus updated.
• Regularly update Windows.
• Use strong passwords and enable firewalls.

My Experience Removing Viruses Manually on Windows

Manual removal requires patience. In one instance, I isolated a malware process in Safe Mode, deleted suspicious files and registry entries, then cleaned temporary files. After a deep scan with Malwarebytes, the system was clean and stable. This approach gave me control, especially when automatic tools were disabled by malware.

Summary

Removing a virus manually from Windows involves:

• Booting into Safe Mode.
• Identifying and stopping malicious processes.
• Deleting temporary and suspicious files.
• Cleaning startup programs and registry entries.
• Resetting browsers.
• Updating Windows and scanning with security tools.

Following these steps carefully will help you regain control of your PC and secure it against future threats.