How to reduce RAM usage with PC Manager’s one-click feature on Windows 11

• Microsoft PC Manager tool offers a one-click way to reduce RAM usage on Windows 11.
• The Boost feature frees memory without changing system settings, and Smart Boost automates memory optimization in the background.

On Windows 11, you can use the Microsoft PC Manager app to reduce RAM usage during a session, and in this guide, I’ll show you how, as memory prices keep climbing due to AI and other factors.

Although you can configure your computer to free up memory (such as disabling apps at startup, unnecessary background services, and features), the “Boost” feature in the PC Manager app lets you instantly reduce system memory usage without making system changes.

The feature actually forces the system to release memory currently held by apps that aren’t strictly necessary for their operation at that moment. As a result, you’ll see the “Memory Usage” percentage drop immediately, which is particularly useful if your computer feels sluggish because you have too many tabs or background apps open.

PC Manager is one of those lesser-known Microsoft tools that are actually useful. This utility is free and designed to simplify computer maintenance. 

It doesn’t necessarily add “new” features that the operating system doesn’t already have. Instead, it serves as a central dashboard that brings together various settings (such as storage cleanup, startup management, and security) into a single, easy-to-use interface.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to use the Microsoft PC Manager app to free up and improve system memory on your computer.

• Free up system memory on Windows 11
• FAQs about reducing RAM usage on Windows 11

Free up system memory on Windows 11

To free up memory on your computer, install the PC Manager app, and then follow these steps:

1. Open the PC Manager app.

2. Click on Home from the left pane.

3. Click the Boost button.

   

4. (Optional) Click the “Set Smart boost” option.

   

5. Turn on the “Smart boost setting” toggle switch to run the memory optimization automatically.

6. (Optional) Turn on the option to launch PC Manager automatically.

Once you complete the steps, the application will apply the necessary changes to minimize memory usage and delete temporary files.

If you opted to enable the optional settings, the Microsoft PC Manager app will start and automatically optimize memory usage.

One thing I noticed is that after the boost feature clears virtually every temporary file, including those in your web browser, which could slow down your surfing experience until the application recaches the files. If loading a page results in a broken image or you notice something odd, simply reload the web page.

If you use your computer for gaming, you can also reduce memory usage (around 2GB) by enabling the Xbox Full Screen Experience.

Alternatively, you can install the Microsoft PC Manager app with the winget install --id 9PM860492SZD command in Command Prompt or PowerShell (as an administrator).

FAQs about reducing RAM usage on Windows 11

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers about freeing up system memory on Windows 11.

What is Microsoft PC Manager on Windows 11?

PC Manager is a free utility from Microsoft that helps manage system performance, storage, startup apps, and security from a single dashboard on Windows 11.

How does PC Manager reduce RAM usage?

PC Manager reduces RAM usage by forcing Windows 11 to release memory held by apps and background processes that are not actively needed at that moment, without changing system settings.

What does the Boost feature do in Microsoft PC Manager?

The Boost feature instantly frees up system memory and deletes temporary files, resulting in a noticeable drop in memory usage during the current session.

Does PC Manager Boost permanently change system settings?

No, the Boost feature does not modify system configurations. It only applies temporary memory optimization that lasts until apps reclaim memory again.

Is it safe to use PC Manager to free up RAM?

Yes, PC Manager is developed by Microsoft and is safe to use. It relies on built-in operating system mechanisms rather than third-party memory hacks.

What is Smart Boost in Microsoft PC Manager?

Smart Boost is an optional feature that automatically optimizes memory usage in the background when system memory reaches a certain threshold.

Should I enable Smart Boost on Windows 11?

Smart Boost is useful on systems with limited RAM or heavy multitasking, but it is optional and not required for occasional manual optimization.

Does PC Manager help with gaming performance?

Yes, freeing up RAM can help reduce background memory pressure. Enabling the Xbox Full Screen Experience can further reduce memory usage by around 2GB during gameplay.

Is PC Manager better than disabling startup apps?

PC Manager does not replace startup optimization. Startup management reduces memory usage long term, while Boost provides immediate, temporary relief.

How often should I use the Boost feature?

You can use Boost whenever your system feels sluggish, especially after opening many apps or browser tabs.