How to Fix "Your Computer Is Low on Memory" Error in Windows 10/11

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Running out of memory can severely impact your computer’s performance, leading to slowdowns, freezes, and even crashes. The "Your Computer Is Low on Memory" error typically indicates that your system’s RAM is insufficient for the tasks it's currently handling. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including too many running applications, memory leaks, or hardware issues. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to resolve this issue and restore optimal performance to your system.

1. Close Unnecessary Applications

Running too many applications can consume all available memory.

  • Open Task Manager:

    • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  • Identify Resource-Heavy Applications:

    • Go to the “Processes” tab and look for applications that are using a significant amount of memory.

  • End Unnecessary Processes:

    • Right-click on any non-essential application and select “End task” to close it.

2. Increase Virtual Memory

Increasing the virtual memory can provide additional resources when physical RAM is low.

  • Open System Settings:

    • Press Windows + S, type “View advanced system settings,” and select it.

  • Adjust Virtual Memory:

    • In the System Properties window, go to the “Advanced” tab and click “Settings” under “Performance.”

  • Modify Virtual Memory:

    • Go to the “Advanced” tab and click “Change” under “Virtual memory.”
    • Uncheck “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives” and select the drive where Windows is installed.
    • Choose “Custom size,” enter the initial and maximum size (usually 1.5 to 2 times the amount of RAM), and click “Set.”
    • Click “OK” and restart your computer.

3. Disable Startup Programs

Programs that start with Windows can consume memory.

  • Open Task Manager:

    • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  • Manage Startup Programs:

    • Go to the “Startup” tab and review the list of programs set to run at startup.

  • Disable Unnecessary Startup Items:

    • Right-click on programs that are not essential and select “Disable.”

4. Check for Memory Leaks

Memory leaks occur when applications do not release memory properly.

  • Update Applications:

    • Ensure that all installed software is up-to-date as updates may include fixes for memory leaks.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Restarting can clear temporary memory leaks and restore system performance.

5. Scan for Malware

Malware can consume system resources and cause low memory issues.

  • Run a Full System Scan:

    • Use your antivirus software to perform a full system scan and remove any detected malware.

  • Use Windows Defender:

    • If you don’t have third-party antivirus software, you can use Windows Defender by going to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Security” > “Virus & threat protection” and running a full scan.

6. Increase RAM

Adding more physical RAM can significantly improve performance.

  • Check RAM Specifications:

    • Determine the type and amount of RAM compatible with your system by checking your computer’s specifications.

  • Install Additional RAM:

    • If possible, add more RAM to your computer. This may require purchasing compatible RAM modules and physically installing them into your computer.

7. Adjust Performance Options

Adjusting performance settings can free up memory resources.

  • Open Performance Options:

    • Right-click on the Start button and select “System.”
    • Click “Advanced system settings” and go to the “Advanced” tab.
    • Click “Settings” under “Performance.”

  • Adjust for Best Performance:

    • Select “Adjust for best performance” to disable visual effects that consume memory.
    • Click “Apply” and “OK.”

8. Check for System Updates

System updates can fix bugs and improve system stability.

  • Open Windows Update Settings:

    • Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”

  • Check for Updates:

    • Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

9. Free Up Disk Space

Low disk space can sometimes affect virtual memory.

  • Open Disk Cleanup:

    • Press Windows + S, type “Disk Cleanup,” and select it.

  • Clean Up Files:

    • Select the drive you want to clean up and follow the prompts to remove unnecessary files.

  • Consider Using Storage Sense:

    • Go to “Settings” > “System” > “Storage” and enable Storage Sense to automatically manage disk space.

10. Repair or Reinstall Windows

A repair or fresh install of Windows can resolve underlying issues.

  • Repair Windows:

    • Use the Windows installation media to perform a repair installation by booting from the media and selecting the repair option.

  • Reinstall Windows:

    • As a last resort, you can perform a clean installation of Windows. Be sure to back up your data before proceeding.

Conclusion

The "Your Computer Is Low on Memory" error can significantly impact system performance, but several effective methods can help resolve the issue. By closing unnecessary applications, increasing virtual memory, disabling startup programs, and performing regular maintenance tasks, you can improve your computer’s memory management. Upgrading RAM, scanning for malware, and adjusting system settings are additional steps that can enhance performance. These solutions should help alleviate memory issues and restore smooth operation to your Windows 10/11 system.

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