Optimize RAM Usage in Microsoft Edge with Resource Controls

This article explains how to manage memory usage in Microsoft Edge using resource controls.

Microsoft Edge is the default browser in Windows 11. However, users can switch to their preferred or favorite browser anytime. Edge is based on Chromium, similar to Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers today.

The latest build versions of Microsoft Edge include a Resource controls feature. When this is on, you can control how much RAM (memory) Microsoft Edge can use “when you’re PC gaming” or “Always.”

Once you’ve activated the Resource controls feature, it’s worth noting that Microsoft Edge’s RAM usage is initially regulated solely during PC gaming sessions. However, if you prefer to consistently limit Edge’s RAM usage, you can effortlessly transition to the “Always” setting.

Note that resource controls can affect your browser performance depending on the limit you set. When you set a limit for the memory Edge can use, your browser functions normally until that limit is hit. When Edge hits the limit, the browser will try to reduce its memory usage, and you may notice increased page reloads with more tabs being slept and discarded.

Setting a low limit may slow down your browser performance.

Turn On or Off Resource Controls for Microsoft Edge

As mentioned above, users can turn “Resource controls” on or off in the Microsoft Edge browser.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Microsoft Edge browser.

Then click on the Settings and more (Alt+F) three horizontal dots button at the top right corner and select Settings.

On the Settings page on the left panel, click the System and performance button to open it.

On the System and performance settings page, under the “Manage your performance” section, select the “Resource controls” tile. Then, toggle the switch button to the On or Off position to enable or disable it.

Once enabled, select one of the options under “Choose when to control resources.”

• When you’re PC gaming
• Always

By default, this setting controls RAM usage “only during PC gaming.” To limit Edge’s RAM usage at all times, select “Always.”

Choose how much RAM Edge can use – adjust the slider to set a maximum limit of available system RAM (memory) Microsoft Edge can use.​

Note that setting a low RAM limit may affect browser performance.

Close the Settings page when you are done.

Enable or disable Resource controls using Windows Registry Editor

Another way to enable or disable the “Resource controls” feature in Edge is to use the Windows Registry Editor.

First, open the Windows Registry editor as administrator.

Then, navigate to the registry key below.

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge

Next, double-click the RAMResourceControlsEnabled (REG_DWORD) name on the Edge key’s right pane to open it.

Then, type 0 to disable the “Resource controls” feature for all users.

If you do not see the “RAMResourceControlsEnabled” item, right-click a blank area and create a new DWORD (32-bit) registry item.

Then, type the name “RAMResourceControlsEnabled” and enter 0 to disable the feature for all.

To restore the default behavior and continue to allow users to manage “Resource controls“, delete the “RAMResourceControlsEnabled” item created.

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Enabling or disabling “Resource controls” in Microsoft Edge allows users to manage the browser’s memory usage based on their preferences and needs for better performance.
• Users can toggle the “Resource controls” feature within the Microsoft Edge browser settings, adjusting the RAM usage limit for gaming or consistently across all activities.
• An alternative method involves using the Windows Registry Editor to enable or disable “Resource controls” with more technical control.
• It’s crucial to balance the RAM usage limit to avoid potential impacts on browser performance, considering that setting a low limit may slow down the browsing experience.
• Regularly reviewing and adjusting the “Resource controls” settings can help optimize Microsoft Edge’s performance and overall system resource management.