ReadyBoost is a feature in Windows designed to improve system performance by using a USB flash drive as additional cache memory. It was primarily created to enhance the speed of computers with traditional hard drives (HDDs).
Using ReadyBoost with an SSD (Solid State Drive) is generally not recommended, as SSDs are already fast. However, some users might want to try it for specific performance testing or troubleshooting scenarios in Windows 11.
This guide will walk you through how to enable and use ReadyBoost with an SSD on Windows 11, explaining each step clearly and simply.
By the end, you will understand the process and whether ReadyBoost can benefit your system with an SSD installed.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- ReadyBoost works best with USB flash drives or SD cards, not internal SSDs. Windows usually disables ReadyBoost on SSDs automatically.
- Your USB drive or SD card needs at least 256 MB of free space to use ReadyBoost.
- Ensure your Windows 11 system is up to date for compatibility and security.
- If you have an SSD as your main drive, Windows typically uses it efficiently, so ReadyBoost may not provide noticeable improvements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Use ReadyBoost with an SSD on Windows 11
Step 1: Connect a Suitable USB Drive or SD Card
Insert a USB flash drive or SD card into your PC. It should have at least 256 MB of free space and support USB 2.0 or higher for best results.
Why this matters: ReadyBoost uses external storage to cache files and speed up access. Internal SSDs aren’t used for ReadyBoost because they already offer fast access times.
Step 2: Open File Explorer and Locate Your USB Drive
Press Windows + E to open File Explorer. Find your USB drive or SD card in the list of devices under “This PC.”
Step 3: Access ReadyBoost Settings
Right-click on the USB drive icon and select Properties.
In the Properties window, switch to the ReadyBoost tab. If the tab is missing, your device may not support ReadyBoost or Windows has disabled it due to the presence of an SSD.
Step 4: Enable ReadyBoost
In the ReadyBoost tab, select the option Use this device.
You can choose how much space to reserve for ReadyBoost by moving the slider or typing the amount manually. More space allows for better caching, but avoid using all available space in case you need it for storage.
Click Apply, then OK to save the settings.
Step 5: Confirm ReadyBoost is Working
After applying, Windows will test the device to ensure it meets the requirements. If successful, ReadyBoost will start caching data on your USB drive or SD card.
You can check the status by revisiting the ReadyBoost tab or monitoring system performance changes.
Why ReadyBoost Might Not Work Well with SSDs
SSDs provide much faster read/write speeds compared to USB drives. Because of this, Windows usually disables ReadyBoost when it detects an SSD as the main storage device to avoid redundant caching.
If Windows disables ReadyBoost automatically, it’s a sign your SSD is already optimized for speed, and ReadyBoost won’t offer any benefit.
Alternative Options for Improving SSD Performance
- Enable TRIM: This helps maintain SSD performance over time. You can check and enable TRIM via Command Prompt.
- Update SSD Firmware: Manufacturers often release updates to improve speed and reliability.
- Optimize Virtual Memory: Adjust the paging file size to ensure smooth system operations.
- Use Disk Cleanup: Removing unnecessary files can free up space and improve speed.
FAQs About Using ReadyBoost with SSD on Windows 11
Q: Can I use ReadyBoost directly on my internal SSD?
A: No. Windows does not allow ReadyBoost on internal SSDs because the SSD is already fast enough. ReadyBoost is designed for slower drives like HDDs or external flash storage.
Q: Will ReadyBoost help if I have a large amount of RAM?
A: If you have 8GB or more RAM, ReadyBoost usually provides little to no performance benefit, since RAM is faster than USB storage.
Q: What happens if my USB drive doesn’t support ReadyBoost?
A: Windows will notify you that the device is not fast enough or does not meet the requirements. You should try a different USB flash drive or SD card.
Q: Can ReadyBoost improve gaming performance on Windows 11 with SSD?
A: Generally, no. SSDs already offer fast load times, and ReadyBoost won’t significantly change gaming performance.
Q: How do I disable ReadyBoost if I don’t want to use it anymore?
A: Right-click the USB drive, go to Properties > ReadyBoost tab, and select Do not use this device. Then click Apply and OK.
When Nothing Works
If ReadyBoost does not appear, cannot be enabled, or doesn’t improve performance, it’s likely because your system’s SSD is already optimized.
For further assistance, you can visit the official Microsoft support page on ReadyBoost:
Additionally, consider consulting your PC manufacturer’s resources for SSD optimization tips.
Conclusion
ReadyBoost is a useful tool for improving performance on systems with slower hard drives, but it is not designed to work with internal SSDs in Windows 11.
While you can enable ReadyBoost on external USB drives or SD cards, your SSD likely already provides the speed benefits ReadyBoost offers.
For better SSD performance, focus on firmware updates, system optimization, and ensuring Windows 11 settings are properly configured.
By understanding these steps and limitations, you can make informed decisions about using ReadyBoost and improving your PC’s speed effectively.