If your Windows 11 PC frequently runs out of memory while running multiple apps or heavy programs, adjusting the page file (virtual memory) can help improve performance. The page file acts as virtual RAM, allowing your system to temporarily store data on your hard drive or SSD when physical RAM is full.
This guide will show you how to increase the page file size in Windows 11 safely and effectively.
Why Increase Page File Size?
Increasing the page file can help with:
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Preventing system slowdowns or freezing
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Avoiding low memory errors
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Improving performance in memory-intensive applications like video editing or gaming
Step 1: Open System Properties
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Press Win + S to open Windows Search
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Type “View advanced system settings”
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Click the result to open the System Properties window
Step 2: Access Performance Options
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In the System Properties window, go to the Advanced tab
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Under Performance, click Settings
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A new Performance Options window will appear
Step 3: Open Virtual Memory Settings
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In the Performance Options window, go to the Advanced tab
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Under Virtual memory, click Change
Step 4: Adjust Page File Settings
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Uncheck “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives”
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Select the drive where Windows is installed (usually C:)
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Choose Custom size
Set Initial and Maximum Size
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Initial size (MB): Typically 1.5 × your RAM size
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Maximum size (MB): Typically 3 × your RAM size
For example, if you have 8 GB of RAM:
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Initial size → 8 × 1024 × 1.5 ≈ 12288 MB
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Maximum size → 8 × 1024 × 3 ≈ 24576 MB
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Click Set and then OK
Step 5: Restart Your PC
Changes will only take effect after a system restart. Make sure to save your work before rebooting.
Step 6: Verify the New Page File Size
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Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
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Go to the Performance tab → select Memory
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You should see the updated Virtual Memory reflecting your new page file size
Tips for Optimizing Page File
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Use SSD instead of HDD for faster virtual memory performance
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Avoid setting a too high maximum — it can waste disk space
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Keep the initial and maximum sizes similar for better stability
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Monitor your system performance and adjust if needed
Common Issues
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Windows cannot access the page file → Make sure the drive has enough free space
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Error messages after changing page file → Reset to automatic settings, restart, and try again
Final Thoughts
Increasing your page file size in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to prevent memory-related issues and improve system stability. By carefully adjusting the virtual memory settings, your PC can handle larger workloads smoothly without running into low memory errors.
For best results, pair this with sufficient physical RAM and SSD storage for optimal performance.