How to fix high memory usage on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To fix high memory usage on Windows, you can employ several methods including managing startup programs, adjusting virtual memory settings, and using built-in tools like Task Manager. These steps can help optimize your system's performance and reduce memory consumption.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the troubleshooting process for high memory usage, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your system.
  • •Administrator access to modify system settings.
  • •Backup important data to prevent loss during troubleshooting.
  • •Basic understanding of navigating Windows settings and Task Manager.

Method 1: Managing Startup Programs

This method is useful when high memory usage is caused by too many applications launching at startup.
  • •Step 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • •Step 2: Click on the 'Startup' tab to view all startup applications.
  • •Step 3: Right-click on unnecessary applications and select 'Disable'.
  • •Step 4: Restart your computer to see the changes take effect.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 offers a more streamlined interface for managing startup applications.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the Start button and select 'Task Manager'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the 'Startup apps' section under the 'Apps' category in Settings.
  • •Step 3: Toggle off any applications you do not want to start automatically.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can manage startup programs through Task Manager or Settings.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the taskbar and select 'Task Manager'.
  • •Step 2: Click on the 'Startup' tab to view and manage startup applications.

Method 2: Adjusting Virtual Memory Settings

Adjusting virtual memory can help alleviate memory pressure when physical RAM is insufficient.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on 'This PC' and select 'Properties'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Advanced system settings' on the left pane.
  • •Step 3: Under the 'Advanced' tab, click on 'Settings' in the Performance section.
  • •Step 4: Go to the 'Advanced' tab and click on 'Change' under Virtual Memory.
  • •Step 5: Uncheck 'Automatically manage paging file size for all drives'.
  • •Step 6: Select your drive, click on 'Custom size', and set the Initial size and Maximum size (recommended: 1.5 times your RAM).
  • •Step 7: Click 'Set', then 'OK', and restart your computer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while following the above methods, refer to these common problems and solutions.
  • •Error: 'Task Manager not responding' - Solution: Restart your computer and try again.
  • •Issue: 'Changes not saving in Virtual Memory' - Fix: Ensure you have administrator privileges.
  • •Problem: 'Startup programs still running' - Workaround: Check for additional startup locations like the Startup folder in the Start Menu.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips and shortcuts to enhance your experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Win + R - Opens the Run dialog for quick access to commands.
  • •Command line: 'wmic memorychip get capacity' - Displays the total RAM capacity.
  • •Hidden feature: Resource Monitor - Access it by typing 'resmon' in the Run dialog to analyze memory usage in detail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance and monitoring of system resources can significantly reduce high memory usage.