How to Replace the Memory (RAM) in Your Windows Computer GA S REGULAR Menu Lifewire Tech for Humans Newsletter! Search Close GO Software & Apps > Windows 44 44 people found this article helpful

How to Replace the Memory (RAM) in Your Windows Computer

Increase your Windows computer's processing power by adding RAM

By Tim Fisher Tim Fisher Senior Vice President & Group General Manager, Tech & Sustainability Emporia State University Tim Fisher has more than 30 years' of professional technology experience. He's been writing about tech for more than two decades and serves as the VP and General Manager of Lifewire. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on June 30, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Windows The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide

What to Know

Before replacing, look up system memory limitations and research your motherboard compatibility.Replace RAM: Open computer with screwdriver > add RAM to open slots, or remove old RAM and replace.RAM replacement process may differ between desktop and laptop. This article explains how to replace the Random Access Memory (RAM) in your Windows PC.

Before Replacing the RAM

The type of RAM you need depends on the make and model of your computer and whether it's a desktop or a laptop. In addition, the computer's motherboard has strict requirements for which generation of RAM it will accept. So, be sure to look up the specifications for your machine. You also need to know which slots on the motherboard and in which combinations you can install the RAM modules. If you're not sure if you need to upgrade, consider freeing up the memory you already have. There might just be unnecessary strain on the memory that you can clear away to essentially "get more RAM" for free. If you are confident that the physical RAM sticks need to be replaced, see our laptop memory buyer's guide and desktop memory buyer's guide for information on how much memory is enough, limitations, the RAM types that are available, and more. Finally, to ensure you get the best RAM for your particular setup, make sure the memory is compatible with your motherboard.

How to Replace the RAM in a Computer

After you purchase the correct RAM chips for your computer, open the computer and add them to empty slots intended for RAM chips, or you remove the old chips and replace them with new chips. The specific steps necessary to replace the memory in your computer depends on whether you are replacing the RAM in a desktop or laptop computer. Below are links to illustrated guides that walk you through the process of replacing the RAM in your computer: The 10 Best RAM of 2022 How to Replace Desktop Memory How to Replace Laptop Memory Replacing memory is a simple task that anyone with a screwdriver and a little patience can complete in less than 15 minutes. See our Motherboard RAM Slots piece for more on how to use desktop and laptop RAM slots. How Much RAM Do You Need For Gaming? Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Reseat a Desktop Memory Module CMOS: What It Is and What It's For 8 Things to Consider Before Buying a Desktop PC How to Upgrade RAM on a Laptop How to Pick a Motherboard How to Check RAM and Motherboard Compatibility Phoenix Beep Code Error Troubleshooting 4 Best Free Memory Test Programs (October 2022) The Best Ways to Clear RAM on Your Mac or Windows Computer How to Allocate More RAM to Minecraft How to Fix a Kernel Data Inpage Error What Are the Types of System Resources in a Computer? How to Fix Problems During the Windows Login Process The 7 Best Ways to Speed up Your Computer 13 Ways to Get More RAM on Your Laptop What Are Expansion Slots? Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies