Introduction:

Running low on RAM can significantly impact your computer’s performance, making it slow and unresponsive. Thankfully, there is a workaround that allows you to use a pen drive, also known as USB flash drive, as an additional source of RAM for your computer. This process is called ReadyBoost, and it’s available on Windows operating systems starting from Windows Vista. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a pen drive as RAM.

Step 1: Choose a Compatible Pen Drive

Before starting the process, ensure you have a compatible pen drive with sufficient speed and capacity. The following criteria are recommended:

– At least 4GB storage capacity

– A high-speed USB port (USB 2.0 or later)

– Using a Flash-based pen drive (not hard disk-type)

Step 2: Insert the Pen Drive into Your Computer

Insert the USB pen drive into an available USB port on your computer. Wait for the system to recognize it and complete all driver installations if needed.

Step 3: Configure ReadyBoost

1.Open File Explorer, locate your pen drive in the list of devices, and right-click on it.

2.Select ‘Properties’ from the context menu.

3.In the Properties window, click the ‘ReadyBoost’ tab.

4.Choose either ‘Dedicate this device to ReadyBoost’ to use the entire storage capacity of your pen drive as additional RAM or ‘Use this device’ to specify the amount of space you want to allocate for ReadyBoost.

5.Move the slider appropriately if you’re using partial space and click ‘OK’ to apply the new settings.

Windows will now utilize the pen drive as an additional source of RAM when needed. You should notice an improvement in system performance depending on your usage scenarios.

Step 4: Monitor Performance (Optional)

To monitor how effective ReadyBoost is for your computer, you may use the built-in Resource Monitor tool:

1.Open the Task Manager by pressing “Ctrl + Shift + Esc” or right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager.”

2.Click on the “Performance” tab.

3.Click on “Open Resource Monitor” at the bottom of the window.

4.In the Resource Monitor, expand “Memory” to see how much of your pen drive’s storage is being used as RAM.

Conclusion:

Using a pen drive as RAM is an affordable and effective way to enhance your computer’s performance, especially when running low on physical RAM. By following these four simple steps, you can ensure your system’s improved functionality with minimal effort. However, please note that this method might not replace the need for additional physical RAM in high-end applications and use cases.