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How to speed up your PC by adding more Ram

If your computer is slow and struggling to cope, adding more Ram can be an inexpensive way to give it a boost. Here's how to do it in three easy steps
Natalie TurnerContent writer
Adding more RAM to your computer

Expanding your computer’s Ram is a simple upgrade with instant rewards. It’s a cost-effective way to boost your PC’s performance speed, and can bring a new lease of life even to older computers.

It's a fairly simple job that you can do yourself, with the aid of a small screwdriver. Follow our three steps below to learn how to add Ram to your computer.

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What is Ram?

Ram (Random Access Memory) is your computer’s short-term memory.

When you open a photo, play a video, or launch a program, the data is temporarily stored in your computer’s Ram. It's then released back to the hard disk when you’re finished.

1. Find out what type of Ram you need

It’s important to find out which type of Ram your computer is compatible with before you buy new memory.

Crucial, which sells memory in the form of Ram and hard disks, has a handy tool that you can use to find out what Ram your computer takes.

Go to Crucial's Upgrades page. You can either click Upgrade Finder or Three-Step Upgrade Selector, or you can download the scanning tool by clicking Crucial Scanner and Let's get started

That takes you to the 'Welcome to the Crucial System Scanner' page. Tick I agree to the terms & conditions, and then click Start Your Free Scan

Crucial terms and conditions

That downloads a file called CrucialUKScan.exe. Browse to that file (it's probably in your Downloads file - you can find it by clicking your yellow File Explorer folder, then Downloads) and double-click it.

Grant it permission to run, and it will open up a new browser window and when it's finished it will display what Ram you have installed already and what you can buy to add to your computer. 

The scanner tool sometimes explains that the best performance comes from using ‘matched pairs’, which means using two identical Ram modules of the same size and make. 


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2. Buy new Ram

Don’t feel obliged to purchase the Ram that is offered for sale through the Crucial scanning tool. You might find the same Ram from another vendor or on Amazon or eBay.

It’s worth noting that the Ram you need is sometimes offered in two different varieties, DIMM (usually for desktop PCs) or SO-DIMM (for laptops). Make sure you buy the right type.

3. Open your computer to add Ram

Before you do anything, switch your computer off, unplug it from the mains and remove its battery. We also recommend unplugging any accessories and using an anti-static wristband during the entire installation process.

Check the instruction manual that came with your laptop or look on the underside of the device for the Ram bay access panel. You will usually need a small Philips-head screwdriver to open it.

Adding Ram to a computer

With the panel removed, you will be able to see your old Ram. Carefully remove the older modules by lightly releasing the metal or plastic clips until you can slide them out fully.

Install the new Ram by lining up its notches with the corresponding notches in the memory slot. Gently push it down until it clicks into place.

Screw the access panel back on and restart your computer.


In need of a new laptop but don't want to fork out thousands? See our pick of the best cheap laptops under £300 and £500


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