Follow these steps to manually adjust your Windows page file (virtual memory) size. While Windows typically manages this automatically, you might want to change it if you're experiencing performance issues or low memory warnings.
Before You Start
- Note your current RAM size - you'll need this to calculate the new page file size
- Make sure you have enough free space on your drive
- Consider backing up important data before making system changes
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access Advanced System Settings
Choose one of these methods to open System Properties:
Method 1: Desktop
- Right-click on the This PC icon
- Select Properties
- Click Advanced system settings
Method 2: Quick Command
- Press Windows key + R
-
Type
sysdm.cpl - Press Enter
2. Open Performance Settings
Advanced Tab
In System Properties, select the Advanced tab
Performance
Click Settings under Performance
Virtual Memory
Click Advanced tab, then Change
3. Set Your Page File Size
Now you'll configure the actual page file settings:
Configuration Steps
- Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size
- Select your system drive (usually C:)
- Select Custom size
- Enter your desired sizes (see recommended sizes)
- Click Set , then OK
Recommended Sizes
- Initial size: 1.5 × RAM size
- Maximum size: 3 × RAM size
- Example: For 8GB RAM:
- - Initial: 12288 MB (8 × 1.5)
- - Maximum: 24576 MB (8 × 3)
4. Apply Changes
Final Steps
- Click OK in all open dialogs
- Restart your computer
- Changes take effect after restart
After Restart
- Monitor system performance
- Check for any error messages
- Verify changes in System Properties
💡 Pro Tip
If you have an SSD and sufficient RAM (16GB or more), you might want to set both initial and maximum sizes to the same value to prevent fragmentation and reduce write operations.
Understanding the Page File
A page file (also called virtual memory or swap file) is a hidden system file that Windows uses as an extension of your computer's physical memory (RAM). When your RAM fills up, Windows moves less-used data to this file to free up physical memory for more immediate tasks.
When to Adjust Your Page File
- You're receiving "low memory" warnings
- Your system is running slowly with multiple applications
- You're using memory-intensive applications
- You want to optimize SSD lifespan