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Troubleshooting Out of Memory Errors

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3 views

Troubleshooting Out of Memory Errors

Uploaded by

computerpc231
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Troubleshooting "Out of Memory" Errors

When a computer shows an "Out of Memory" error, it typically indicates that the system
has run out of available RAM or virtual memory. This guide provides steps to diagnose and
resolve the issue.

Step 1: Check Current Memory Usage

1. Open Task Manager:

o Access Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

o Go to Performance Tab: Click on the Performance tab and select Memory to


view current memory usage.

2. Identify Memory Hogs:

o Review Applications: Check the Processes tab to see which applications are
using the most memory.

o Close Unnecessary Applications: Right-click on applications with high memory


usage that are not needed and select End task to free up memory.

Step 2: Increase Virtual Memory

1. Open System Properties:

o Access System Settings: Right-click on This PC and select Properties, then click
Advanced system settings.

2. Adjust Virtual Memory Settings:

o Open Performance Options: In the System Properties window, click on the


Settings button under Performance.

o Go to Advanced Tab: Select the Advanced tab and click on Change under
Virtual memory.

o Increase Paging File Size: Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for
all drives, select the drive where Windows is installed, and choose Custom size.
Increase the Initial size and Maximum size values. Click Set, then OK, and
restart the computer.
Step 3: Add More Physical RAM

1. Check Existing RAM:

o Verify RAM Size: Open Task Manager and check the amount of physical RAM
installed under the Performance tab.

2. Upgrade RAM:

o Determine Compatibility: Check your computer’s specifications to determine


the maximum supported RAM and compatible RAM types.

o Install Additional RAM: Purchase and install compatible RAM modules. Follow
the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help if needed.

Step 4: Manage Startup Programs and Services

1. Open Task Manager:

o Access Startup Tab: Go to the Startup tab in Task Manager.

2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs:

o Review and Disable: Identify non-essential programs that start with Windows
and click Disable on those that are not needed.

Step 5: Check for Memory Leaks

1. Identify Memory Leaks:

o Monitor Applications: Observe if certain applications consistently consume


more memory over time.

2. Update or Reinstall Software:

o Update Software: Ensure all software and applications are updated to the
latest versions, as updates may fix memory leaks.

o Reinstall Software: If an application is suspected to have a memory leak,


uninstall and reinstall it.
Step 6: Scan for Malware

1. Run a Full System Scan:

o Use Antivirus Software: Open your antivirus software and run a full system
scan to detect and remove any malware that might be consuming memory.

2. Remove Detected Threats:

o Follow Instructions: Follow the antivirus software’s instructions to quarantine


or remove any detected threats.

Step 7: Perform System Maintenance

1. Run Disk Cleanup:

o Open Disk Cleanup: Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar and open the utility.

o Clean Up Files: Select the drive where Windows is installed, choose the types
of files to delete (e.g., temporary files), and click OK to clean up.

2. Defragment and Optimize Drives:

o Open Optimize Drives: Type Defragment and Optimize Drives in the search bar
and select the tool.

o Optimize Drives: Select your system drive and click Optimize to defragment
and optimize the drive.

Step 8: Check System for Updates

1. Update Windows:

o Open Settings: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

o Check for Updates: Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

2. Update Drivers:

o Open Device Manager: Right-click on the Start menu and select Device
Manager.

o Update Drivers: Expand categories, right-click on devices (especially memory-


related ones), and select Update driver.
Summary: An "Out of Memory" error can be caused by high memory usage, insufficient
virtual memory, inadequate physical RAM, or software issues. By checking memory usage,
increasing virtual memory, upgrading RAM, managing startup programs, addressing
memory leaks, scanning for malware, performing system maintenance, and keeping the
system updated, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve memory-related issues.

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