Reducing Windows 7's Memory Consumption

Hello,

I'm not much of a techno-hero, so I don't know a terrible lot about the inner-workings of computers, but I do have a question.

MyPresario CQ62-214NR came packaged with 2GB of RAM. When I began installing games on it, I discovered that Windows eats 3/4 of that memory for use with other software. My father, the techno-geek of the family, says that it doesn't need nearly that much, but isn't sure how to change the usage, since the computer's boot menu doesn't have an option to do so.

If anyone has an answer, I would like to know how to reduce the memory usage down to about 512MB.

Thanks.

Windows 7 does a pretty good job of memory management. Rather than try to beat it down, I'd just buy more RAM, which is currently at all time record low prices---you can get 8 gb for under $50.

Welcome to Windows Seven Forums.

I agree with ignatzatsonic. Buying more RAM would be the better option, your computer manufacturer's support site should be able to advise what you can upgrade to.

Failing that, you could use Crucial's memory scanner, which will also recommend what you can upgrade to.

Use the Crucial System Scanner software to find out what type of memory is in your computer

Windows 7 is just doing its job, and there is nothing to worry about it. The memory is used by Prefetch and Superfetch, which help your common apps load faster. Should you need to run something memory intensive, like a game, the memory will be cleared of this fetched cache to make room for the running app. If your dad is the techno-geek of the family, he'd understand (hopefully) that Windows 7 isn't Windows Xp and shouldn't be treated with the same set of rules and "what's normal" ideas.

There's a saying common on other boards. If you don't want your memory used, remove it from your computer, put it in a static bag, and sit it on a shelf. If you upgraded to 4 GB, the system would go after much of that as well, and this is a good thing.

Like DeaconFrost said, win7 is using more of the ram for caching, that's why it feels snappier compared to xp. If you tend to multitask a lot, then extra 2GB will keep windows and you happy. Considering how cheap ram is now, it's a no brainer.

Another point to remember is that Windows 7 is designed to use whatever memory you throw at it.

Use Crucial's memory scanner, your computer user guide or your computer manufacturer's support site to find out out how much RAM you can upgrade to, and then max it out.

Your computer will definitely benefit from it and RAM is not too expensive these days - just make sure that if you do upgrade it needs to match the specifications of what you already have as a mismatch could slow your machine down.