If a Windows 10 PC is running low on memory, you normally do not need a “RAM cleaner.” Start by closing applications that are using large amounts of memory and restart Windows if memory usage remains unusually high. Task Manager shows which processes are consuming RAM.
Find programs using the most memory
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Choose More details if the compact view appears.
- On the Processes tab, select the Memory column to sort by usage.
- Close an application normally if you no longer need it.
Do not end unfamiliar Windows processes merely because they appear near the top of the list. Some are required by the operating system.
Restart when memory use seems stuck
A restart closes running applications and services and clears the current contents of RAM. If performance is normal after restarting but degrades after a particular program runs for hours, that application may have a memory leak or another software problem.
Reduce unnecessary startup apps
Open Settings > Apps > Startup and disable applications you do not need every time you sign in. This reduces background activity without relying on third-party memory-cleaning utilities.
When more RAM is the real solution
If the computer routinely uses nearly all available memory while running the programs you actually need, software cleanup has limits. Check whether the PC supports a RAM upgrade, or reduce the number of memory-intensive applications used at the same time.
Windows 10 Home and Pro reached the end of normal support on October 14, 2025, so hardware-upgrade decisions should also consider whether the computer can move to a supported operating system.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.