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How to Fix Memory Compression Issues in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Memory compression is a feature in Windows 11 that helps manage RAM more efficiently by compressing unused data. However, sometimes this feature can cause performance issues or errors that slow down your system. Fixing memory compression problems can improve your computer’s speed and stability.

This guide will take you through simple and detailed steps to identify and resolve memory compression issues on your Windows 11 PC. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By following this step-by-step approach, you will learn how to troubleshoot and fix memory compression problems effectively. Let’s get started to make your Windows 11 run smoother.

Before diving into advanced fixes, it’s important to understand the basics and check a few things to save time and avoid unnecessary steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check System RAM: Ensure your PC has enough physical memory. Memory compression works best when there is limited RAM available.
  • Windows Updates: Make sure Windows 11 is up to date. Microsoft often releases fixes for known issues.
  • Restart Your PC: A simple reboot can sometimes clear temporary glitches causing memory compression errors.
  • Close Unnecessary Apps: Running too many programs at once can overload memory management.

Step 1: Monitor Memory Compression Usage

Before changing any settings, it’s important to see if memory compression is actually causing problems. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Click the Performance tab.
  3. Select Memory from the left pane.
  4. Look for the Compressed label, which shows how much RAM is currently compressed.

If the compressed memory is extremely high (close to your total RAM), it might be impacting your system’s performance.

Step 2: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings

Windows uses virtual memory as extra RAM by using space on your hard drive. Incorrect virtual memory settings can worsen memory compression issues. Here’s how to fix them:

  1. Right-click the Start button and choose System.
  2. Scroll down and click About, then select Advanced system settings on the right.
  3. In the System Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
  4. Under Performance, click Settings.
  5. Go to the Advanced tab again and click Change under Virtual memory.
  6. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
  7. Select your system drive (usually C:), choose Custom size, and set:
    • Initial size: The value recommended by Windows at the bottom of this window.
    • Maximum size: Usually 1.5 to 3 times your physical RAM size (e.g., if you have 8GB RAM, set max size to 12288 MB).
  8. Click Set, then OK and restart your computer.

This adjustment helps Windows manage memory better and can reduce compression-related slowdowns.

Step 3: Disable Memory Compression Temporarily

If memory compression is causing major issues, you can disable it to check if performance improves. Disabling it is safe and reversible.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
Disable-MMAgent -mc

This command disables the memory compression feature.

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. Check if your system runs smoother without memory compression.

If you want to re-enable compression later, open the terminal again and run:

Enable-MMAgent -mc

Step 4: Run System File Checker to Repair Corrupted Files

Corrupted system files can interfere with Windows memory management. Running the System File Checker (SFC) tool can fix these issues.

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This scan will take some time to complete. It will automatically repair corrupted files if found.

After the scan finishes, restart your PC and check if memory compression issues persist.

Step 5: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers, especially for storage devices, can affect how Windows manages memory. Keeping drivers updated helps prevent these problems.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories like Disk drives and Display adapters.
  3. Right-click each device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow prompts to install any updates.
  6. Restart your computer after updates.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can try these advanced options:

  • Reset Virtual Memory to Default: Sometimes letting Windows manage paging file size automatically works better. Return to Step 2 and re-enable the automatic option.
  • Clean Boot: Boot Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs to check if third-party software affects memory compression.
  • Check for Malware: Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or other trusted antivirus software to rule out malware causing memory issues.
  • Increase Physical RAM: Adding more RAM to your PC reduces the need for memory compression and paging file use.

FAQs

What is memory compression in Windows 11?

Memory compression is a feature that compresses unused data in RAM to free up space, helping your PC run more efficiently when RAM is limited.

Is it safe to disable memory compression?

Yes, disabling memory compression temporarily is safe and can help diagnose performance problems. You can re-enable it anytime.

Why is my memory compression using so much RAM?

High memory compression usage usually means your system is low on physical RAM or running many applications at once. Adjusting virtual memory and closing apps can help.

Can memory compression cause system crashes?

While rare, corrupted system files or driver issues related to memory compression may cause crashes. Running system scans and updating drivers can resolve this.

How do I know if memory compression is active?

You can check memory compression usage in Task Manager under the Performance tab in the Memory section.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face memory compression issues, consider these final options:

  • Use Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Memory troubleshooter.
  • Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, you can reset your PC to factory settings. Back up your data before doing this.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support site for expert help.

Conclusion

Memory compression is a helpful Windows 11 feature but can sometimes cause performance issues if not working correctly. By monitoring usage, adjusting virtual memory, and using system tools like SFC, you can fix most problems. Disabling compression temporarily and updating drivers also help troubleshoot the issue.

Remember to keep your system updated and manage running applications to reduce memory pressure. If problems persist, advanced options like clean boot, malware scans, or adding more RAM may be needed.

Following this step-by-step guide should make your Windows 11 experience smoother and improve overall system stability.

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