How much memory do I need?
Below is a rough guide you can use to gage your memory requirements.
| Operating System |
Minimum* |
Recommended** |
| Windows98 |
64mb |
256mb to system max |
| Windows2000 |
256mb |
512mb to system max |
| WindowsXP |
256mb |
512mb to system max |
| Windows Media Center |
512mb |
1gb to system max |
| WindowsVista |
512mb |
1gb to system max |
** Our memory recommendation is based on a user who only uses standard word processing programs. We recommend users who are looking to run multiple programs, games, or video/graphics programs install the maximum amount of memory supported by their computer. You can find this maximum amount of supported memory for your system by using our Computer Memory Upgrade Tool.
* The minimum amount of memory is typically set by the Operating System manufacturer and considers the minimum amount required to run the basic Operating System itself and not any additional programs. This minimum requirement is often very misleading and rarely acceptable by users running multiple programs at one time. This is why we recommend you install more memory than what is recommended for the Operating System.