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1.) What is windows virtual memory?
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Physical Memory - RAM (random access memory)
Virtual Memory - File(s) stored on your hard drive - used when physical memory runs low. Called the "PageFile" or "Paging File".
There may be times when programs or the OS needs to store data in memory, but does not have enough space in RAM.
That data is then temporarily stored on the hard drive instead.
"Managing your computer's performance"
"Managing computer memory"
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/...ng/productdoc/en/computer_maint_perf_mgmt.asp
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2.) How much virtual memory do I need?
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Depends on your PC, amount of RAM, and software being used.
Is it running out of Virtual Memory?
If you want to adjust the Virtual Memory, it's common to set it at 1.5 to 2 times the amount of RAM installed in your system.
RAM 128 MB x 2 = 256 MB
RAM 256 MB x 2 = 512 MB
RAM 512 MB x 2 = 1024 MB
"Optimize Virtual Memory for Performance in Windows XP"
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/columns/mcfedries/03june16.asp
"Managing Virtual Memory"
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/dngenlib/html/msdn_virtmm.asp
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3.) How can I allot more memory to the virtual memory?
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Unless you are having difficulty related to the pagefile size,
it may be best to just let Windows use the defaults (allow it to set itself).
To change it manually:
Right-click My Computer
Left-click Properties
Advanced tab
[Performance Options...]
[Change...]
Enter the Initial size in MB
Enter the Maximum size in MB
Click [Set]
Click [OK]
Click [OK]
Click [OK]
"To change the size of the virtual memory paging file..."
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/...n/sysdm_advancd_perform_change_vmpagefile.asp
Austin M. Horst
