Sometimes speeding up a computer takes a bit more than removing junk files, defragmenting hard disks, cleaning the Registry, disabling unnecessary start-up items, and tweaking. If you have an older PC and especially if you are trying to run Vista on it, consider adding memory. It is a pretty cheap way to make your old computer a lot faster.

Adding RAM (Random Access Memory) is easy. Let me tell you how to do it yourself.

Getting the Right Type of RAM

First of all you will need to determine what type and how much memory you need. If you still have your motherboard manual, you should be able to look up what kind of RAM you need, how much each slot can take, and how many slots your computer has.

Another way to find the right RAM is to do an online scan. There is a number of websites, usually online shops that sell RAM, where you can perform a free scan (for example Crucial.com).

To look up how much memory you have at the moment, press the Windows key + Pause/Break key to open System Properties. The information you need will be listed on the General tab.

In Windows Vista click Start and type System, then choose System from the list. Look for the amount of Memory (RAM) in the box.

Now let’s get busy!

Installing Memory

If you have a desktop, do the following:

1. Shut down the computer and unplug the power cord. Also it would be a good idea to wear an anti-static wristband, since static electricity can potentially damage the RAM. If you don’t have a static strap, keep one hand on a metal part of the computer case.
2. Open the side of the case. You might also need to unplug some cables to give yourself enough room, so make sure you remember which ones you’ve unplugged.
3. Find the RAM slots. Usually they are near the CPU.
4. Remove the RAM from its anti-static bag. Hold it by the edges to have as little contact with the working parts as possible.
5. Line the memory up with the motherboard slot. Ensure that you have the RAM the correct way round. Begin to press down, first gently and then increase the pressure until the memory slots into the motherboard. Make sure that the memory is seated correctly.
6. Replace all the cables you have unplugged and close the case.
7. Boot your computer. Windows will automatically detect the installed RAM and start using it. To check it out go to System Properties (Windows key + Pause/Break key) and view the amount of RAM on the General tab.

If you are a laptop user, open the panel at the bottom (you’ll need a screwdriver to do that), and find the RAM slots. Insert the memory, replace the panel, put the screws back, and boot your laptop. If the memory was installed correctly, the computer will start using it and you will be able to check it out in System Properties.

As you can see, adding RAM is easy and it will give your computer a new life. Don’t be one of those people who panic when their computer starts slowing down and waste a lot of money on a new one. Because usually all you need to do to speed it up is remove junk files, clean the registry, defrag hard disks, and add more RAM.