Concept

• If your system possesses insufficient RAM for a task, Windows temporarily uses the hard disk to hold the extra data. Like physical memory, virtual memory saves data and discards it when no longer needed.
  
  

Significance

• Virtual memory helps enhance your computer's performance, providing noticeable improvements to general system browsing and navigation. It also allows programs that require a high amount of resources to process tasks more efficiently.
  
  

Warnings

• Virtual memory is slower than physical RAM. Also, as virtual memory uses space on your hard drive, it reduces the amount of space available for program installations and other uses.
  
  

Alternatives

• As physical memory generally performs faster than virtual memory, add more RAM to your computer if needed. Reducing your computer's reliance on virtual memory will help your computer process tasks faster.