I was wondering if it is recommended to make a ram disk for your computer. I know that they are much faster than HDDs and even faster than SSDs, but are there any downsides other than the possibility of losing data on the ram disk? I have 16 GB of ram and I plan on making four into a ram disk so I should still have more than enough left. Also, what software should I use?
I experimented with a RAM drive about a year ago. It was OK but it really didn't make a huge difference for me. I guess it depends on how you use your computer for daily activities. Having said that, I used RAMDisk. The freeware version supports up to a 4GB drive.
RAMDisk - Software - Server Memory Products & Services - Dataram
And I used this tutorial to set it up.
Guide * Windows 7 Ultimate Tweaks & Utilities *
WarningCreating a RAM dive requires moving the default temp and tmp folders to the RAM drive. If you ever uninstall the RAM drive you must move the temp and tmp folders back to their default locations or you will have many problems.
Thanks, maybe I'll give it a try.
You don't have to move the temp files to the RAM drive if you don't want to. I run a video game server on mine for slightly faster use of game files for people that join the game, as well as few other things. This way my HDD isn't being constantly used either.
I also use the RAMDisk software, and ended up buying it to make larger RAM drives than 4GB. If you just want a 4GB one, you can use their free sample version that will let you use up to 4GB.
Of course you'll likely want to backup what you have on the RAM drive in case of a power failure, and so on.
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