How to Change Page File Size in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 22, 2025

Did you know that Windows 11 uses something called a page file (also known as virtual memory) when your physical RAM runs out? If your PC feels sluggish or you keep seeing memory-related errors, adjusting the page file size can help improve performance.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a page file is, why you might want to change its size, and show you step-by-step how to safely adjust virtual memory settings in Windows 11.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • A page file is a hidden system file on your hard drive that acts as extra RAM.

  • Windows 11 automatically manages page file size, but you can customize it for better performance.

  • Increasing page file size helps when you have low RAM or run heavy applications.

  • Decreasing it can save disk space but may cause performance issues if set too low.

  • You can adjust page file settings in System Properties → Performance Options → Virtual Memory.

What Is a Page File in Windows 11?

Think of the page file as a “backup” for your RAM.

When your computer runs out of physical memory, Windows moves some data to the pagefile.sys file on your hard drive or SSD. This process is called paging.

  • Example analogy: RAM is like your desk. When it gets too cluttered, you put less-used items into a drawer (the page file) to free up space.

By default, Windows 11 automatically manages page file size. But in some cases, you might want to change it manually.

Why Change Page File Size in Windows 11?

Here are some common reasons to adjust it:

  • 🖥️ Improve performance when running games, editing videos, or using heavy applications.

  • 💾 Save disk space on smaller SSDs by lowering the page file size.

  • ⚠️ Fix memory-related errors, such as “Your system is low on virtual memory.”

  • 🔧 Troubleshooting crashes or BSODs (Blue Screen of Death).

How to Check Current Page File Size

Before changing it, you should know your current configuration.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System → About → Advanced system settings (on the right).

  3. In the System Properties window, click Settings under Performance.

  4. Go to the Advanced tab → Look under Virtual memory.

  5. You’ll see the current page file size in MB.

How to Change Page File Size in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)

Here’s the complete process:

Step 1: Open System Properties

  1. Press Windows + R, type:

    sysdm.cpl

    and press Enter.

  2. This opens the System Properties window.

Step 2: Open Performance Options

  1. In System Properties, go to the Advanced tab.

  2. Under Performance, click Settings.

Step 3: Access Virtual Memory Settings

  1. In Performance Options, go to the Advanced tab.

  2. Under Virtual memory, click Change.

Step 4: Adjust Page File Size

  1. Uncheck the option: Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.

  2. Select the drive (usually C:) where Windows is installed.

  3. Choose one of these options:

    • Custom size → Set your own Initial size (MB) and Maximum size (MB).

    • System managed size → Let Windows handle it (default).

    • No paging file → Not recommended unless you have lots of RAM.

Step 5: Enter Custom Values (Recommended)

If you pick Custom size, here’s what to enter:

  • Initial size (MB): Equal to your installed RAM size (in MB).

  • Maximum size (MB): 1.5x to 2x your installed RAM.

👉 Example:

  • If you have 8 GB RAM (8192 MB):

    • Initial size = 8192 MB

    • Maximum size = 16384 MB (16 GB)

Step 6: Apply Changes

  1. Click Set → OK.

  2. Restart your PC to apply the new page file size.

Recommended Page File Size (Quick Reference Table)

Installed RAM Initial Size (MB) Maximum Size (MB)
4 GB (4096 MB) 4096 MB 8192 MB
8 GB (8192 MB) 8192 MB 16384 MB
16 GB (16384 MB) 16384 MB 24576 MB
32 GB (32768 MB) 32768 MB 49152 MB

Things to Keep in Mind

  • 💡 If you use an SSD, paging is faster, but it can reduce SSD lifespan slightly.

  • 🛑 Don’t set the page file size too low—it may cause system instability.

  • ✅ For most users, letting Windows manage the page file is fine.

  • 🎮 Gamers and power users may benefit from a custom size.

Advanced: Move Page File to Another Drive

If you have multiple drives, you can move the page file to a secondary SSD/HDD to improve performance.

  1. Open the Virtual memory settings again.

  2. Select the system drive (C:) → choose No paging file.

  3. Select another drive → set Custom size.

  4. Click Set → Restart PC.

Conclusion

Changing the page file size in Windows 11 can boost performance, prevent memory errors, and optimize system resources.

  • If you’re not sure, stick with System managed size.

  • If you run heavy apps or games, set a custom page file size (RAM x 1.5 to 2).

  • For best results, restart after making changes.

👉 By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll have full control over your Windows 11 virtual memory settings.

FAQs: Changing Page File Size in Windows 11

1. Is it safe to change page file size in Windows 11?

Yes, it’s safe if you follow recommended values. Setting it too low can cause crashes.

2. Should I disable page file if I have 16GB+ RAM?

Not recommended. Windows still uses the page file for stability.

3. Will increasing page file improve gaming performance?

It won’t directly boost FPS, but it prevents crashes in memory-heavy games.

4. Can I move page file to another drive?

Yes, you can assign it to a faster SSD or another drive for performance benefits.

5. What’s the best page file size for 8GB RAM?

Set Initial = 8192 MB and Maximum = 16384 MB.

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