What are the benefits of extra RAM?

All computers need random-access memory (RAM) to work. In most cases, the more RAM you have, the more your computer can do. Modern Operating Systems (OS), such as Windows and OSX, take advantage of added memory automatically. It improves productivity, handling more things at the same time without bogging down. Software upgrades may require a memory boost. If your computer is running slow, adding more RAM can be the least expensive way to get greater speed.

Speed

Speed is the main reason for adding RAM. If you run several programs at once, or do demanding work like graphic design, your computer will run slow if low on memory. When the computer does a lot of work and runs out of RAM, it will respond erratically to mouse clicks and typing. Some programs may crash completely. Installing more RAM will alleviate these problems.

Computers used as file and web servers are especially RAM-sensitive. They may be handling requests from hundreds of users at the same time. Heavily loaded servers running low on RAM are sluggish and can freeze up. Servers always should have generous amounts of memory.

Upgrades

Newer versions of software, especially operating systems, always use more memory. It takes memory to manage new features. If you're planning a major software upgrade, check the memory requirements against what you already have.

Programs

You can use bigger, more sophisticated programs if you have extra memory. Existing programs can handle large documents more easily. If you handle large graphic files, spreadsheets or videos routinely and you're experiencing speed problems, more RAM will help.

Multitasking

If you have many documents open with a program, or switch among several programs, you'll need as much memory as you can get. If you're low on memory, the computer will balk at opening new documents, display "low memory" error messages frequently and freeze at the worst possible time. Adding RAM will solve that problem and let you multitask confidently and productively.

Limits

Every computer has limits on how much memory you can add. These limits have increased with new generations of hardware. The capacity of RAM modules has grown. Check the memory slots in your computer. Also, check the computer's manual for the biggest module your computer can take. If your slots are filled up, you may still be able to add memory by replacing smaller modules with ones of higher capacity. If it's completely maxed-out, and you're not satisfied with your machine's performance, consider purchasing a new computer.