If your Windows 11 computer feels slow or keeps freezing, there’s a good chance your system memory (RAM) is being stretched to its limits. High memory usage can cause apps to lag, the system to stutter, and multitasking to feel like a nightmare. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be a tech genius to fix it.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll cover how to lower memory usage in Windows 11 and optimize your PC for better performance.
What Causes High Memory Usage in Windows 11?
Before we fix the issue, let’s understand the problem. Some common causes include:
- Too many background apps running.
- Startup programs hogging resources.
- Browser tabs eating memory.
- Outdated drivers or system bugs.
- Malware or unnecessary services.
Why Lowering Memory Usage Matters
RAM is your PC’s short-term memory. When it’s overloaded:
- Apps take longer to open.
- Games stutter or crash.
- Switching between tasks feels sluggish.
By lowering memory usage, you’re basically giving your PC room to breathe.
Step 1: Check Current Memory Usage
Before making changes, see what’s eating your RAM.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Processes tab.
- Look under the Memory column to see which apps use the most RAM.
Step 2: Disable Startup Programs
Startup programs can silently hog memory.
- Open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup Apps tab.
- Right-click unnecessary apps → Disable.
For example, apps like Spotify, Zoom, or Discord don’t need to start with Windows unless you use them daily.
Step 3: Close Background Apps
Windows 11 runs many apps in the background—even when you don’t use them.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Click on an app → Advanced Options.
- Under Background app permissions, set it to Never.
Step 4: Manage Browser Memory Usage
Web browsers (especially Chrome and Edge) are memory-hungry.
- Close unused tabs.
- Use extensions like The Great Suspender (for Chrome).
- Switch to a lighter browser like Brave or Firefox.
Step 5: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings
Virtual memory acts like extra RAM using your hard drive.
- Search Performance Options in Start.
- Go to Advanced > Virtual Memory.
- Set custom size:
- Initial size: 1.5x your RAM
- Maximum size: 3x your RAM
Example: If you have 8GB RAM, set initial to 12,288 MB and max to 24,576 MB.
Step 6: Turn Off Visual Effects
Windows 11’s animations look cool, but they eat memory.
- Press Windows + R, type
sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter. - Go to Advanced > Performance Settings.
- Select Adjust for best performance.
This will disable fancy effects and free up memory.
Step 7: Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated drivers and system bugs can cause memory leaks.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update → Install updates.
- Update drivers via Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website.
Step 8: Scan for Malware
Viruses and malware can secretly hog RAM.
- Open Windows Security.
- Run a Full Scan.
- Use trusted tools like Malwarebytes for deeper scans.
Step 9: Use Memory Compression Wisely
Windows 11 uses memory compression to handle RAM better. But sometimes it backfires.
- Open PowerShell as Admin.
- Type:
Get-MMAgent - If compression is enabled and causing issues, disable with:
Disable-MMAgent -mc
Step 10: Upgrade Your RAM (If Needed)
If you’ve tried everything and still face high memory usage, your PC may simply not have enough RAM.
- For smooth performance, 8GB is minimum, 16GB is recommended, and 32GB is ideal for gaming or heavy work.
Best Practices to Keep Memory Usage Low
- Restart your PC regularly.
- Don’t run too many apps at once.
- Clear browser cache and cookies.
- Uninstall bloatware you never use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Disabling essential services – Could break Windows features.
- Using shady “RAM boosters” – Often malware in disguise.
- Ignoring updates – Bug fixes often reduce memory leaks.
Quick Recap
To lower memory usage in Windows 11:
- Check memory-hungry apps in Task Manager.
- Disable startup apps.
- Limit background apps.
- Optimize browser usage.
- Adjust virtual memory.
- Turn off visual effects.
- Keep Windows updated.
- Scan for malware.
- Use memory compression wisely.
- Upgrade RAM if necessary.
Conclusion
High memory usage in Windows 11 doesn’t have to slow you down. By disabling unnecessary apps, optimizing settings, and keeping your system clean, you can free up RAM and give your PC the speed boost it deserves.
Remember: sometimes the simplest fixes—like closing unused apps or restarting your computer—make the biggest difference.
FAQs
1. What is causing high memory usage in Windows 11?
Mostly background apps, startup programs, or browser tabs consuming too much RAM.
2. Will adding more RAM fix high memory usage?
Yes—if your system is low on RAM, upgrading is the best long-term solution.
3. Is it safe to disable startup apps?
Yes, but only disable non-essential ones like Spotify or Skype—not system apps.
4. Does Windows 11 use more memory than Windows 10?
Yes, Windows 11 requires slightly more RAM due to added features and visuals.
5. How much RAM is enough for Windows 11?
8GB works for light use, 16GB is best for multitasking, and 32GB+ for gaming or professional work.