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How to Fix System Compressed Memory High Disk Usage on Windows 11: Effective Steps to Solve the Error

System Compressed Memory is a Windows process designed to optimize your system’s memory usage by compressing data in RAM. However, sometimes this process can cause high disk usage, slowing down your computer significantly. This issue is common on Windows 11 and can be frustrating for users seeking smooth performance.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to address high disk usage caused by System Compressed Memory. These methods range from simple restarts to more advanced system tweaks. Following these steps will help you get your PC back to normal speed.

This guide will walk you through each step in detail, explaining why it’s important and how to perform it, even if you’re not very tech-savvy. Let’s get started on resolving this issue effectively.

By following these instructions carefully, you can reduce disk usage and improve overall system responsiveness on your Windows 11 device.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date with the latest updates installed. Updates often fix bugs causing system issues.
  • Check your system’s free disk space. Low disk space can worsen performance problems.
  • Create a system restore point before making changes, so you can easily revert if something goes wrong.
  • Save all your work and close unnecessary programs before starting troubleshooting.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, high disk usage is temporary and caused by background tasks. Restarting your PC allows Windows to clear temporary files and reset processes that might be stuck.

How to restart:

  1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom left of your screen.
  2. Select the power icon, then click “Restart.”
  3. Wait for your computer to reboot and check if the disk usage has improved.

Step 2: Disable System Compression via Registry Editor

System Compressed Memory uses compression to save RAM, but this can sometimes cause excessive disk activity. Disabling this feature can reduce disk usage.

Important: Editing the registry can affect your system if done incorrectly. Follow these instructions carefully.

How to disable system compression:

  1. Press Windows + R keys together to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following path:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlSession ManagerMemory Management
  4. Find the entry named DisableCompressedMemory. If it doesn’t exist, create it:
    • Right-click on the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
    • Name it DisableCompressedMemory.
  5. Double-click on DisableCompressedMemory and set its value to 1.
  6. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
  7. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Step 3: Run Disk Cleanup

Temporary files and system cache can cause high disk usage. Cleaning these files helps improve performance.

How to run Disk Cleanup:

  1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar, type Disk Cleanup, and select it.
  2. Choose your system drive (usually C:) and click OK.
  3. Check the boxes next to Temporary files, Recycle Bin, and System files if available.
  4. Click Clean up system files to include system files in the cleanup.
  5. Click OK to start the cleanup process.

Step 4: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers can cause Windows processes to behave abnormally, including System Compressed Memory. Updating drivers ensures compatibility and stability.

How to update drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories such as Disk drives and Storage controllers.
  3. Right-click on each device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow on-screen instructions if updates are found.
  6. Restart your PC after updating drivers.

Step 5: Disable Superfetch (SysMain) Service

Superfetch (now known as SysMain) preloads frequently used apps into memory but can sometimes cause high disk usage.

How to disable SysMain:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Services window, scroll down to find SysMain.
  3. Right-click SysMain and select Properties.
  4. Click the Stop button to halt the service.
  5. Change the Startup type to Disabled.
  6. Click OK and close the window.
  7. Restart your computer and check disk usage again.

Step 6: Check for Malware

Malware or viruses can cause unusual disk activity. Running a full system scan helps identify and remove harmful software.

How to scan for malware:

  1. Open Windows Security by searching in the Start menu.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  3. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a more thorough check.
  4. Follow any instructions to remove detected threats.
  5. Restart your PC after cleanup.

Alternative Method: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings

Virtual memory is a portion of your hard drive used as additional RAM. Incorrect settings can contribute to high disk usage.

How to adjust virtual memory:

  1. Press Windows + S, type Advanced system settings, and open it.
  2. In the System Properties window, under the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Performance section.
  3. Go to the Advanced tab and click Change under Virtual memory.
  4. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
  5. Select your system drive (usually C:), choose Custom size, and set Initial and Maximum size values recommended by Windows at the bottom.
  6. Click Set, then OK to save changes.
  7. Restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is System Compressed Memory?

System Compressed Memory is a Windows process that compresses unused pages in memory to reduce RAM usage and improve performance.

Is it safe to disable System Compressed Memory?

Disabling it can reduce disk usage but may increase RAM consumption. It’s generally safe but should be done only if you experience high disk usage issues.

Why does System Compressed Memory cause high disk usage?

This can happen if your system is low on RAM or if the compression process encounters issues, causing excessive disk read/write operations.

Can updating Windows fix this problem?

Yes, Microsoft often releases patches and updates that improve system processes and fix bugs causing high disk usage.

Will adding more RAM help?

Adding more RAM can reduce the need for compression and paging, potentially lowering disk usage by System Compressed Memory.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and still experience high disk usage, consider the following:

  • Perform a system reset or reinstall Windows 11 as a last resort to fix deep system issues.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support website for detailed guides and assistance: https://support.microsoft.com/windows.
  • Contact a professional technician to diagnose hardware-related problems such as failing hard drives.

Conclusion

High disk usage caused by System Compressed Memory on Windows 11 can slow down your PC but is usually fixable with a few simple steps. Starting with a restart and cleaning temporary files, then moving on to disabling compression or adjusting system settings, helps tackle the issue methodically.

Keeping your system updated, drivers current, and scanning for malware also plays a crucial role in maintaining smooth performance. If problems persist, advanced options like adjusting virtual memory or seeking professional help can provide solutions.

By following this guide, you can improve your Windows 11 experience and reduce annoying disk usage spikes from System Compressed Memory.

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