7.7.1 Windows Virtual Memory

Learn how virtual memory works in Microsoft-Windows and how to manage it.

Virtual memory in Windows allows the system to use more RAM than the physical memory modules can support.

Paging

As more applications and programs are being run, the available RAM eventually runs out. When that happens, Windows moves inactive information out of the physical RAM and onto a file on the hard disk called the paging file. The processor is able to map memory addresses to locations both on the physical RAM and the paging file, mechanically making it able to use more RAM than physically available.

You can set the size of the system paging file by navigating to Settings > System > About > Advanced system settings > Performance > Settings > Advanced > Virtual memory.

Physical RAM Swapping

Windows is also able to swap data between the physical RAM and the paging file to keep applications running smoothly when there isn't enough physical RAM to go all around. Windows keeps checking for data loaded on the physical RAM that isn't being used by any applications, and quickly moves them to the paging file to free up some space for active processes.

This process is managed by the Virtual-Memory-Manager.

Disk Thrashing

If you have adequate RAM installed on your system and Windows doesn't have to use it's paging file often, virtual memory. However, if your system resorts to data swapping a lot, it can lead to the processor or hard disk dying early and your system being rendered unusable.

A good indicator for disk thrashing is when the disk activity light stays on constantly or the disk performance indicator in Task Manager consistently stays active. Basic fixes include:

• using less applications at the same time
• adding additional RAM modules to your system

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