Why Adding RAM Makes a Computer Faster

RAM stands for Random Access Memory.

In its simplest terms RAM is the working memory of your computer. It is like your brain's short term memory. As your computer runs various tasks and processes, this RAM memory begins to fill up. This 'now' memory allows your computer to quickly and easily do multiple tasks while bringing the data you need quickly to you.

Of course like our own STM(short term memories) our computer's RAM can only hold so much at a time. Keep in mind that many programs and processes may be running on your computer without you being actively aware and each of these programs utilizes a small portion of RAM to run.

So adding more RAM to your computer essentially means your computer has an increased short term memory and more processes and programs can use the 'now' memory to carry out your computer based activities. More RAM to you means your computer programs will run smoother, you can access information quicker and do more at once without your computer slowing down, freezing up, or crashing.

By adding RAM you are in a way increasing your computer's speed and abilities by allowing more tasks to be done at once. You should also be aware that resetting or powering down your computer clears your RAM and when your computer starts up again it has full availability of its RAM. The longer your computer is on at a time and the number of programs you run at once will determine how quickly your RAM will fill up and be slowed down.

It is important to pick out the proper RAM for your computer as there are various types of RAM with designations as SODIMM; different mhz such as 667 (more common), and of course various levels of quality. RAM for laptops is generally different then RAM for desktops as well.