How to Enable or Disable Memory Compression in Windows 11
Memory compression in Windows 11 shrinks unused data in your PC’s RAM to make more space for the apps you’re actively using. This helps your computer feel faster by keeping important information ready for your processor.
Unlike moving data to your slower hard drive, memory compression keeps things quick. Windows 11 uses this smart feature automatically to manage its memory better.
You can choose to turn memory compression on or off. This control lets you adjust how Windows 11 handles memory, especially when you’re doing many things at once or when your PC is working hard.
You can enable or disable memory compression in Windows 11 using PowerShell. Open Windows Terminal as administrator and run Set-MMAgent -MemoryCompression $true to enable, or Set-MMAgent -MemoryCompression $false to disable. Restart your computer after running the command.
Why use memory compression?
Memory compression in Windows 11 helps your computer run more apps simultaneously by making the data in your RAM smaller.
What happens when done?
When you enable memory compression, your computer uses less physical RAM. Disabling it means your computer stops compressing data. While disabling memory compression saves a little processing power, it forces your computer to rely on your hard drive more. This can make your system feel sluggish when many apps are open.
How to check your current status
You can check if memory compression is working by opening Task Manager. Navigate to the Performance tab, then click on Memory to see the compressed amount.
Checking memory compression status in Windows 11 can be done using PowerShell, which provides real-time system insights. Open the Windows Terminal as administrator and enter the command Get-ComputerInfo -Property CsMemoryCompression.
Memory compression in Windows 11 activates with a command in Windows Terminal. If the status shows 'False', meaning it's off, here's how to turn it on. Open Windows Terminal as an administrator, select the PowerShell tab, and type the command to enable memory compression.
If memory compression status shows as False, you can turn memory compression on. Open Windows Terminal as administrator, then ensure you are in the PowerShell tab. Enter this command to turn memory compression on.
Set-MMAgent -MemoryCompression $true
How to disable memory compression
To turn this feature off, open Windows Terminal as administrator and select the PowerShell tab. Enter this command:
Set-MMAgent -MemoryCompression $false
Performance, SysMain, and RAM Latency
Memory compression in Windows 11 uses a small amount of your processor's power to shrink and unshrink data. This usually doesn't have a significant impact on performance.
Troubleshooting Performance Degradation
If your computer feels slower after changing these settings, you should revert them immediately. Open PowerShell as administrator and enter Set-MMAgent -MemoryCompression $true and restart your PC. If issues persist, check your Task Manager to see if a specific app is consuming too much memory.
Summary
Memory compression is a key feature in Windows 11. It helps your PC run smoother by shrinking data in your RAM, and generally, it's best to leave it enabled for optimal speed.
Does disabling memory compression improve gaming performance?
Generally, no. While it frees up a tiny amount of processing power, it increases the chance of your system using the pagefile on your disk. This causes stuttering during games. Unless you have a specific reason to disable it, keep it enabled for the best gaming experience.
Is memory compression safe to turn off on low-RAM systems?
It is safe to turn off, but it is not recommended. On systems with low RAM, memory compression is essential to keep your computer usable. Turning it off will likely cause your system to become very slow or unresponsive as it struggles to manage memory without compression.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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