How to upgrade and install RAM in a laptop
Expand your memory capacity.
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While most modern laptops come with a sufficient amount of RAM, even thebest Windows laptopswill benefit from additional memory. Having more RAM means that your device will be able to handle multiple tasks at once much smoother, which will in turn boost the efficiency of your workflow. Alternatively, you may also want to swap your laptop’s default RAM for faster memory so that you’re getting better performance out of your RAM.
Despite how beneficial replacing default RAM can be, though, many laptop owners choose not to do it out of fear that they’ll damage their device and void their warranty. While it’s true that youcoulddo this if you’re careless and aren’t patient, installing RAM is actually a much simpler and safer process than most people think (you can alwaysback up your PCif you want to keep your data safe).
In this guide, we’ll show you how you can safely replace and install new RAM sticks in your laptop (note that laptops with soldered RAM can’t have their memory replaced).
How to upgrade RAM in your laptop
While the process of replacing the RAM in your laptopsoundsscary, it’s actually a very safe and simple process as long as you’re careful. Here’s how to upgrade the RAM in your laptop:
At this point, you should turn on your laptop and make sure that your system is recognizing the new memory you installed.
Here, you will be able to see the total amount of RAM that you have installed in your laptop. If the amount shown on screen matches the amount of RAM that you just installed, you’re good to go.
More Windows resources
If you’re also interested in installing an SSD in your laptop, check out our guide onhow to upgrade your laptop’s hard drive to a solid-state drive. Also, for more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 andWindows 11, visit the following resources:
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Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he’s been an avid fan since childhood. He’s been writing for Team WC since the summer of 2017, and you’ll find him doing news, editorials, reviews, and general coverage on everything gaming, Xbox, and Windows PC. His favorite game of all time is probably NieR: Automata, though Elden Ring, Fallout: New Vegas, and Team Fortress 2 are in the running, too. When he’s not writing or gaming, there’s a good chance he’s either watching an interesting new movie or TV show or actually going outside for once.Follow him on X(Twitter).
