When you get a notice that your computer is running low on virtual memory, the message is meant to inform you that the virtual memory used to open computer programs is running out. Increasing virtual memory is critical to the proper function of your computer.

Altering Virtual Memory Settings

More often than not, your problems with virtual memory running low can be fixed by adjusting some settings on your computer to free up more memory. Check to see how much free space is left on your computer's hard drive. Click your "Start" menu and the "My Computer" link. (For Windows Vista and Windows 7, the link reads "Computer" instead.) Right-click on your computer's hard drive location--usually the "C:" drive--and select "Properties." This will bring up a window with a pie chart representation of the amount of space you have left. If less than 10 percent of your hard drive is available, you'll need to free some space. You can clear space on your hard drive by running a disk cleanup utility. On top of that, you can uninstall programs you no longer need or use. After you've gotten more space freed up on your computer, make sure that your virtual memory settings aren't too low. On the "Start" menu, right-click "Computer" or "My Computer," then select "Properties." Once this window comes up, click "Advanced" (or "Advanced System Settings" in Vista and 7). This will bring up a new window in which you'll need to click the "Advanced" tab. Click "Settings," then click "Advanced." On this tab, you'll see how much of your computer's memory is allocated to virtual memory. Increase this number to your desired size, then click "OK." Restart your computer after doing this.

Increasing RAM

If removing programs and increasing the allocated virtual memory don't help, increase your computer's random access memory, or RAM. This is what your computer uses to open programs. Increased RAM means more memory can be used for virtual memory. To increase your computer's RAM, determine how much memory your computer can take as well as what kind to buy. You can contact your computer's manufacturer to find out, or you can use websites such as Crucial.com. Input your computer's make and model into a site designed to help you with memory decisions and the website will let you know how much memory your computer can handle, as well as the type to buy. Once you have this information, buy the appropriate memory and install it. You can hire a computer technician to install your RAM for you if you aren't comfortable doing it yourself.

Source:

Microsoft.com: 3 Stubborn PC Problems You Can Fix

PCMag.com: Virtual Memory Low -- What To Do?

Tech.Blorge.com: Virtual Memory Too Low -- What Do I Do?

More Information:

Crucial.com: RAM Memory Upgrade