How to Increase RAM Allocation in Windows? [Minecraft or Other App]

RAM allocation refers to how much memory Windows assigns to applications, processes, and system functions. When multiple programs run at once, Windows divides RAM among them. If an app does not receive enough memory, it may lag or crash.

Increasing RAM allocation does not always mean physically adding new RAM. You can optimize existing memory by adjusting virtual memory, enabling proper system settings, and prioritizing important applications. Windows uses a paging file on your storage drive when physical RAM is insufficient. Adjusting this can help programs run more smoothly.

You can also control which apps consume memory in the background. Some programs automatically start with Windows and use RAM even when not actively used. By disabling unnecessary startup apps and optimizing performance settings, more RAM becomes available for critical tasks.

This guide explains everything you need to know about increasing RAM allocation in Windows with easy and practical methods that work on Windows 11 and Windows 10 systems.

How to Increase RAM Allocation in Windows?

To increase RAM allocation in Windows, adjust virtual memory settings, modify advanced system performance options, disable startup programs, and ensure applications are allowed to use maximum memory. These methods help Windows use available RAM more efficiently and improve overall system performance.

The following steps will guide you through increasing RAM allocation in Windows effectively.

Step 1: Check Installed RAM and Usage

Before making any changes, you should first check how much physical RAM your system has and how it is currently being used.

Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Click on the Performance tab and select Memory. Here you will see total RAM, available memory, and how much is currently in use.

This information helps you understand whether your system actually lacks RAM or if it is simply being used inefficiently. If memory usage is consistently high even when few programs are open, optimization will help. If RAM is too low for your tasks, you may need to upgrade hardware later.

Monitoring RAM usage also helps identify heavy applications that consume large amounts of memory.

Step 2: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings

One of the most effective ways to increase RAM allocation is by adjusting virtual memory, also known as the paging file. Virtual memory allows Windows to use storage space as additional RAM when physical memory is full.

Open the Start menu and search for Advanced System Settings. Click on View advanced system settings. In the System Properties window, go to the Advanced tab. Under Performance, click Settings.

In the Performance Options window, select the Advanced tab again. Under Virtual memory, click Change.

Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives. Select your main drive, usually the C drive. Choose Custom size and enter values for Initial size and Maximum size.

A common recommendation is to set the initial size equal to your installed RAM and the maximum size to double that amount. For example, if your PC has 8 GB RAM, you can set the initial size to 8192 MB and the maximum size to 16384 MB.

Click Set, then click OK and restart your computer. Increasing virtual memory allows Windows to allocate more memory resources to programs when needed.

Step 3: Optimize Performance Settings for Programs

Windows includes performance settings that control how RAM is allocated between background services and active programs.

Open Advanced system settings again and go to the Performance section. Click Settings and navigate to the Advanced tab. Under Processor scheduling, select Programs instead of Background services.

This setting prioritizes RAM and CPU usage for active applications rather than background processes. It ensures that the program you are currently using receives more memory allocation.

Click Apply and OK to save changes. This small adjustment can noticeably improve performance for games and editing software.

Step 4: Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Many applications automatically start when Windows boots. These programs consume RAM in the background and reduce the memory available for important tasks.

Open Task Manager and go to the Startup tab. Review the list of enabled programs. Disable applications that you do not need immediately after startup. Examples may include launchers, update tools, or unused software.

Right-click a program and select Disable. Restart your computer after making changes.

Disabling unnecessary startup programs frees up RAM and allows Windows to allocate more memory to essential applications.

Step 5: Close Background Apps and Services

Even after startup optimization, some apps continue running in the background and consuming memory. Managing these apps improves RAM allocation.

Open Settings and go to Apps. Select Installed apps. Review running programs and uninstall or close those that are not needed.

You can also open Task Manager and end tasks that consume excessive memory. Always avoid closing critical system processes.

Reducing background activity ensures more RAM is available for the programs you actively use.

Step 6: Use Windows Memory Diagnostic

Sometimes memory issues occur due to hardware errors. Running a memory diagnostic ensures your RAM is functioning correctly.

Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic in the Start menu and open it. Choose Restart now and check for problems. Your system will restart and scan for memory issues.

If problems are detected, faulty RAM may prevent proper allocation. Replacing or reseating RAM modules can resolve the issue and improve performance.

Step 7: Enable High Performance Power Plan

Power settings can affect how resources like RAM and CPU are used. Switching to a high-performance power plan ensures maximum resource availability.

Open the Control Panel and go to Power Options. Select High performance. If not visible, click Show additional plans.

This mode prevents Windows from limiting performance to save energy. It allows better RAM usage and smoother multitasking.

Step 8: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated system files and drivers can cause memory allocation issues. Updating ensures better compatibility and performance.

Open Settings and go to Windows Update. Check for updates and install any available updates. Restart your computer after installation.

Also, update graphics and chipset drivers from your device manufacturer’s website. Updated drivers improve memory management and application performance.

How to Increase RAM Allocation for Minecraft or Any Other Specific App?

Some applications, like Minecraft, video editors, or design software, allow manual RAM allocation within their settings. Increasing memory for these apps improves performance and reduces lag.

For Minecraft, open the Minecraft Launcher. Click on Installations and select the version you play. Click Edit and then More Options. Find the JVM Arguments section.

You will see a value like Xmx2G. This represents allocated RAM. Change it to a higher value, such as Xmx4G or Xmx8G, depending on your installed RAM. Save changes and launch the game.

For other software like video editors or virtual machines, open application settings and look for memory or performance options. Assign more RAM if available.

Always avoid allocating all system memory to one application. Leave at least 2 GB to 4 GB for Windows to run smoothly.

Faqs

Can I increase RAM allocation without adding new RAM?

Yes, you can optimize virtual memory, disable background apps, and adjust performance settings to improve RAM allocation without installing new hardware.

Does increasing virtual memory improve performance?

Increasing virtual memory helps when physical RAM is full. It allows Windows to continue running programs smoothly, though it is slower than physical RAM.

Is it safe to change the paging file size?

Yes, adjusting the paging file size is safe when done correctly. Always set reasonable values based on installed RAM.

How much RAM should I allocate to apps?

Allocate only what the application needs. Avoid assigning all system memory to a single app to prevent system instability.

Why is my RAM usage high even when idle?

Background processes, startup programs, and system services often use RAM. Disabling unnecessary ones can reduce usage.

Summary

1. Check installed RAM and current memory usage using Task Manager.
2. Adjust virtual memory settings and set a custom paging file size.
3. Optimize performance settings to prioritize programs.
4. Disable unnecessary startup applications.
5. Close background apps and uninstall unused software.
6. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to check RAM health.
7. Enable high-performance power plan.
8. Update Windows and drivers regularly.