A computer in today’s world needs to have plenty of RAM to handle intricate applications. A computer purchased even a few years ago might need an update to its system memory to perform up to expectations. If you have the opportunity to increase memory capacity, it is worth the investment for most users.

The good news is that computer companies know their customers are more inclined to add additional RAM to their personal computers than ever before. There are ways to complete this task without the assistance of an expert.

What exactly is RAM, and what makes it so important for a computer?

The best way to look at RAM is to compare it to the computer itself. If the CPU is the brain, RAM is the oxygen necessary to keep everything running as it should. A computer needs RAM to ensure that every program runs as smoothly as possible. Most computers are fairly future-proof when  released, but there comes a time when there is not enough RAM to handle as many programs as a user needs to run.

Everyone is guilty of letting too many programs run in the background, but it can wear down the RAM significantly. Instead of constantly having to worry about closing programs and making other sacrifices, upgrading the RAM might be a better way to go instead.

A computer’s RAM is refreshed with each restart, but it doesn’t take long for it to get clogged up once again. As more and more processes are thrown its way, a computer can slow down and not perform the way users would like. This is why it’s so crucial to have the right amount and make necessary adjustments.

The top reasons why it is time for a RAM upgrade

Are you thinking about upgrading the RAM on a computer? Most of the time, there are a few distinct reasons why users will spend the money to make the upgrade.

The operating system needs upgrading

When a brand new operating system is released, it’s the perfect time to upgrade the RAM as well. This is especially true for computers that might be a little bit older because they might not handle the latest release so well in their current form.

Take Windows 10 as an example. If the computer has been running other operating systems in the past, it might not be fully capable of handling all of the features that come with Windows 10 with its current RAM set up. Upgrading the RAM can reduce demand for resources, allowing users to get more use out of their current computer.

Maxing out a new computer

Some users like to make a pretty sound investment with a brand new computer from the very beginning, cutting down the need to upgrade later on. There is usually a maximum amount of RAM that a new computer can take, and buying an aftermarket upgrade is a smart way to go. It is usually cheaper to upgrade the RAM with an aftermarket option instead of adding it to the computer’s price once it is ordered.

Unless the computer does not allow users to add RAM to their setup, it is a smart investment. It is easier to do it from the very beginning if a user can afford it, as it prevents needing to find assistance later on. Not only that, but it can make a brand new computer that much faster.

Performance slowdowns

Computers start to slow down gradually as they handle more and more programs. As a user opens more programs, browsers with more tabs, and several other applications, the computer starts to slow down as well.

If the computer is constantly fighting to perform as it should, updating the RAM could be a great solution.

How easy is it to upgrade RAM?

A user can upgrade the memory on their own if they want to give it a try, as it is much easier to make changes to a computer now than ever before. It is really as simple as removing old RAM modules and replacing them with new RAM once purchased. Shopping for the right RAM that is compatible with a computer is perhaps the toughest part since there are so many options. The RAM slots must be compatible with the computer to work properly, which means the right amount and the right size to fit.

For those who prefer to hire a professional, it shouldn’t cost a lot of money to hire someone. If it seems like too much is being charged for labor, go to another technician and get another quote.

What if a computer with upgraded RAM is still slow?

A computer with upgraded RAM should be able to perform at a pretty high level. However, if a computer is still suffering from slowdown, it might be best to look at some other solutions out there.

One option is to look at certain PC mechanics and utilities out there. System Mechanic® offers tools necessary to upgrade performance . It’s a great way to maximize a computer’s performance overall and is pretty affordable for those on tight budgets.

Also, doing little things such as regularly cleaning your computer, shutting down and restarting every once a while, and more will make a difference. Upgrading RAM is a great fix that so many users have turned to in the past, but other smaller optimizations can make a big difference in performance as well.

Getting the most out of PC System Memory

As much as computers cost, upgrading PC system memory is a pretty affordable solution. It is without question one of those upgrades that can make a true difference in performance, which is why  All it takes is a few days operating with brand new RAM to notice how problems instantly fade away.

If you find yourself struggling with an occasional memory lapse from time to time, you should know that you are not alone. In a survey conducted and published by PLOS One, a peer-reviewed open access scientific journal, about 14 percent of respondents age 18 to 39 said they sometimes experienced these same short-lived memory issues. And many of the same respondents reported that these issues did not significantly interfere with their day-to-day life. Of course, everyone is not so fortunate. In some cases, those seemingly innocuous memory lapses can signal a severe cognitive disorder is on the horizon.

For reference, multiple studies show that people with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, will experience only mild memory problems at first, such as forgetting where they put their keys. Eventually, the level of forgetfulness gets to a point where they forget things that are critically important in their life. That said, whether or not things spiral this far out of control comes down to what is happening in the brain when someone has a memory lapse.

How the Brain Works and Why We Forget Things

To better understand memory lapses, it helps to know more about how the brain stores memories. This same understanding will also shed light on how they can morph into severe cognitive impairment. According to a study published by Germany-based Friedrich–Alexander University Erlangen–Nürnberg, memories related to nearly all life events are captured in the cortex, the part of the brain densely packed with nerve cells. From there, they move to the central switching point of the brain, which is known as the hippocampus. The same flow of information moves in the opposite direction when recalling those memories. Unfortunately, many things can interfere with both of these processes, and when they do, it can make remembering things especially difficult.

Understanding the Different Types of Memory

Now that we are a little more up to speed when it comes to the process involved in storing and ultimately recalling memories, let’s take a moment to go over the kinds of memory human beings have and how they work. Although memory lapses are associated with short-term memory, which is the information we are consciously aware of and are actively thinking about, there are other memory types in the human brain. And they include the following:

Sensory memory – All forms of memory initially start with sensory memory before moving on to other memory types. It is also further subcategorized by the following:

• Visual memory
• Auditory memory
• Touch memory

Long-term memory – This memory type is often referred to as the final stage when it comes to processing memories, and, as the name might suggest, it is how human beings store information for an extended length of time. A few examples of long-term memory include remembering wedding anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, and the like.

Working memory – This memory type enables individuals to recall the steps involved in completing a given task. Examples of working memory include remembering the steps necessary to solve a mathematic equation, structure an essay for a class assignment, or how to complete specific work-related tasks at one’s job.

What Causes Memory Problems in the First Place?

Many things can contribute to memory problems, and they impact the lives of those young and old alike. Along with aging, some of the most common ones, according to an article published by the Mayo Clinic, a renowned academic medical center based in Rochester, MN, include the following:

• Certain medications
• Head trauma
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• A vitamin B-12 deficiency
• Brain diseases
• Substance abuse, namely an alcohol use disorder (AUD)

Hormonal Imbalances and Memory Problems

For many people, a hormonal imbalance is the cause of their memory problems. And this is generally the case for those struggling with hypothyroidism, which refers to an underactive thyroid gland. Among many others, the hallmark symptoms of hypothyroidism include impaired reasoning and critical thinking. Additionally, it can trigger memory loss and even depression. It can also adversely affect reasoning and critical thinking.

Of course, none of this is too surprising when you consider that the thyroid gland sits at the base of the brain. Low human growth hormone (HGH) levels can also put individuals on a fast track to memory problems. Multiple studies, including one published by the National Institutes of Health, have revealed a correlation between adult-onset human growth hormone deficiency and impaired memory. Many studies have also noted a nexus between low HGH levels and impaired concentration, not to mention a higher risk of suffering from anxiety and depression. For males who have more queries there are gathered best Growth hormone for men and more information.

7 Ways to Improve Your Memory

Having detailed the different memory types as well as factors that can lead to memory problems, let’s turn our attention to seven things individuals can do to improve their memory starting today:

Getting enough sleep – One of the easiest ways to improve memory is to get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, men and women should aim for getting between 7 to 9 hours of deep, restorative sleep each night. Getting enough sleep has two benefits when it comes to improving memory. Firstly, it makes it easier to consolidate memories. Second, it makes recalling them much easier when the time comes to do so.

Consuming a brain-boosting diet – A healthy, well-balanced diet can benefit brain health just as much as it can benefit physical health, say many nutritionists, dieticians, and physicians. And this is further backed by a study published by Harvard Health Publishing, which noted that consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, namely fatty fish, helps improve overall brain function. The same was also said of foods rich in antioxidants, such as blueberries, and foods that contain plenty of vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene, which includes spinach, kale, broccoli, and collard greens.

Learning – Most will agree that continuing to learn as much as possible, regardless of age, contributes to personal growth and development. However, doing so also improves brain health, memory recall, and the ability to retain information. In short, learning is an exercise for the brain, and the more you train it, the stronger and healthier it becomes.

Exercise – Along with improving cardiovascular health and making it easier to maintain a healthy weight, exercising for 20 to 30 minutes each day can lead to a sharper memory. In a study published by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), researchers noted that exercising or even playing sports increases the level of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF) in the brain. In turn, this facilitates the growth of new neuronal connections that protect against memory problems.

Laughter – Chronic stress can take just as much of a toll on physical health as it can on psychological health. Many studies show that individuals who lead a stressful life are more likely to struggle with memory problems. The same applies to mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Learning to laugh and smile more can make it easier to cope with stress, which, in turn, minimizes the risk of developing a mental illness or suffering from memory problems.

Communication – The act of speaking requires a fair amount of forethought to effectively express one’s thoughts, ideas, and opinions. That said, it stands to reason that conversing more frequently with friends and loved ones can keep the mind sharp and memory problems at bay.

Healthy lifestyle habits – Along with getting more sleep, finding ways to cope with stress, and exercising regularly, minimizing alcohol consumption can keep one’s memory sharp. And for those who smoke, quitting cigarettes or switching to nicotine pouches can also help in this regard, as it reduces the negative impact of smoking on cognitive function.

Additional Ways to Boost Your Memory

Another way to improve memory is to take dietary supplements that contain brain-boosting ingredients. Some of the best ones, according to most naturopathic physicians, include the following:

• Ginkgo biloba
• Acetyl-L-carnitine
• Phosphatidylserine
• Creatine
• Fish oil

Bottom Line

In summary, many things can adversely affect memory. And while many of them are synonymous with getting older, some are related to hormone imbalances, poor dietary habits, and other non-age-related things. Fortunately, there are plenty of all-natural remedies that can help keep the mind sharp and may even reverse some memory problems. Further, many can lower the chances of developing some of the more severe cognitive issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.