No one will deny that the level of speed and productivity of a computer depends on how “powerful” its hardware is. Also, let's not forget that the key to the stability of a working OS is a properly configured PC configuration. At the same time, some users who are passionate about “optimization” passion come to the false understanding that the work of some services and functions in the Microsoft OS is a waste and, in general, wasted system resources. However, the question “Windows 7: how to disable the page file” raised in the article will help you, dear readers, understand how inappropriate it is to deactivate the virtual memory of a PC. However, for those who are haunted by the origin of the spirit of a natural scientist, the article gives a concrete answer.
So, let's take a closer look at the questions about why Windows needs a Pegefile, how to manage “virtual” parameters, and what could be the consequences when a user deprives the operating environment of additional memory reserves.
Where is the swap file located and what is it for?
On 7-ke, however, like the previous XP, as well as the eighth successor, by default, virtual memory is located specifically on the system partition of the hard drive, usually indicated by the Latin letter “C”. It is worth noting that Pagefile is a hidden file, therefore, in order to "detect" its presence in the OS root directory, you must use the corresponding "Show ... files and folders" function, which can be accessed through the "Appearance and Personalization" section. As for the purpose of virtual memory, it is not so simple ... However, the main idea is this:
- Pegefile is a specially allocated area on the hard disk, which is designed not only to compensate for the lack of physical RAM, but also to help the operating environment work more efficiently due to the integrated functions in the OS: SuperFetch and ReadyBoost, which will not be fully work if Windows does not have a swap file.
- Windows at the time of unforeseen critical situations, for example, when a BSOD error occurs, creates an emergency memory dump. As you know, a “stripped down” OS will be deprived of such an opportunity, but this is not entirely good, since you will not be able to find out what exactly caused the “blue death”.
How much virtual memory does the seventh OS need?
When installing the operating system, the Windows paging file size is set automatically. Usually the value of virtual memory is identical to the amount of physical RAM (nominal value of the installed bars). As practice shows, for the normal operation of the OS this is enough. It is worth mentioning that 32-bit Windows is able to "see" and work only with 4-gigabyte memory, while in the 64-bit version the limitations start with a 192 GB digit. Now for the valid Pagefile values. There is no point in allocating more than 4 GB of disk space for virtual memory, since in most cases it is superfluous ... As already mentioned, automatic values are quite enough. In the case of a “critical shortage” of free space on the system disk, you can move the Pagefile directory to another section of the drive, which in no way affects the stability of the Windows operating environment.
How to change the page file?
Suppose you are sure of the correctness of your assumptions or if some digital event imposes its own scenario of actions on you - you need to reduce or expand the size of virtual memory. Follow the short instructions and your success will be guaranteed.
- Go to the start menu.
- Hold the marker on the "Computer" and click the right mouse button.
- Select “Properties” from the drop-down list.
- Next, you need to activate the item that is located on the left - "Additional ... systems".
- In the “Properties ...” window - in the first block “Performance” - click on the “Parameters” button.
- Click on the "Advanced" tab.
- In the lower area of the window you will see the “Change” button - click on it!
- Uncheck the "automatic" checkbox and activate the "Specify Size" item.
- Enter the required values.
- After that click on the “Set” button, then - “OK”.
The changes you make will take effect immediately after restarting Windows 7. You will learn how to disable the page file from the next section of our article. However, even 8 GB of physical memory cannot guarantee you stability if you delete the Pagefile directory.
So, how to do it: when it seems to you that the amount of physical RAM is enough
Using the above-described action algorithm, re-enter the workspace of the Virtual Memory window.
- Click on the “No swap file” button.
- Activate the "Set" key.
- Confirm your settings and reboot the system.
After the above manipulations, you will get a practical answer to the question: "Windows 7: how to disable the page file?" However, remember: your OS will be left without an important operational component that supports the stability and performance of the operating environment. How much such changes are critical, you will learn a little later. By the way, it is unlikely that you will experience a significant increase in productivity after your PC reboots in “virtual unconsciousness”.
Topic: incredibly useful information
Usually, the question, in our case, concerning Windows 7: “How to disable the page file?”, Arises for two main reasons.
- When the hard drive "C" is full, and the user, due to his inexperience, does not understand how short-sighted is the action, as a result of which Windows remains without a "saving" virtual memory.
- The second case is the excessive self-confidence of the user when he thinks that the installed RAM strips are more than enough, and decides to get rid of the "unnecessary" function.
In both cases, the result will be one - the system will begin to slow down significantly, and some software will stop working altogether. As you can see, Pagefile is a very useful component in the OS.
Finally
So, despite the advantage of high-speed performance of physical RAM, virtual memory is an important "assistant" in solving common problems associated with operational data processing. Well, now you know how to change the swap file and how important the fact of its presence in the OS. As a bonus for the attention that you gave to reading this article, I want to give one simple advice: if your physical memory has a capacity of more than 4 GB, put a 64-bit system, and the rest is up to you. All the best, stability to you and successful configurations!