When you are buying a software program, it is a good idea to check how much computer memory (RAM) the program needs to run. The system requirements are found on the software packaging, or if you’re buying online should be listed in the System Requirements section. The picture is an example of the Windows 7 requirements found on the packaging.

Minimum memory required

The minimum memory required is how much memory your computer must have, at a minimum, to run the program. If your computer does not have that amount of memory available, you need to upgrade your computer with more memory to accommodate the new program. The example shows that 1 GB of RAM is needed for the 32-bit version of Windows and 2 GB of RAM for the 64-bit version.

The recommended memory is the amount of memory that is best to have to run the program at its best, most efficient performance level. If your computer doesn’t have the recommended memory amount, but does have the minimum memory amount, you’re okay to use the program. However, if you want the program to run at peak performance, we recommend you upgrade your computer with more memory.

  • What type of computer memory to use in a memory upgrade.
  • How to find how much RAM is installed on a computer.
  • See our memory and system requirements definitions for related links and information.
  • Memory (RAM) help and support.