Windows XP - What is the maximum RAM it can handle?

[toolman59]

Currently I am running Windows 98se with 512k of PC2100 DDR RAM with an Athlon 1400 processor. Does XP handle more than 512k? and does it manage it more efficiently? I would be interested to know from first hand user experience of XP how well it works in this area compared to 98SE.

 

[butchrecon]

You should have NO problems with XP handling 512 or even 1Gig. Just ensure everything in your system is on the compatability list (Which it probably is). XP is an NT product. It is not subject to the cacheing issues like Windows 9x. James Collins
Field Service Engineer
A+, MCP

email: butchrecon@skyenet.net

Please let us (Tek-tips members) know if the solutions we provide are helpful to you. Not only do they help you but they may help others.

 

[cdogg]

XP is based on the NT kernel, which is much more efficient with handling large amounts of memory. Win98SE as you already know has its limitations. To learn more about them, read this FAQ:

faq615-1638

XP's sweet spot is 512MB. After that, performance gain is minimal (ratio of "performance gain" to "memory added" enters diminishing returns). Of course, how much you need depends on the function of your system. The good news is that you can't throw too much at it (up to 4GB)!

ck_blk@yahoo.com

 

[Shaith]

Memory use by WinXP:

Minimum: 64 MB
Recommended: 128 MB
Maximum: 4 GB

By 64-bit version, maximum is 16 TB

 

[toolman59]

Thank you all for your information, I have checked for compatability and based on your replies I think I will make the change to XP in the near future.

 

[butchrecon]

Glad to be of help> If you have any more issues feel free to ask. James Collins
Field Service Engineer
A+, MCP

email: butchrecon@skyenet.net

Please let us (Tek-tips members) know if the solutions we provide are helpful to you. Not only do they help you but they may help others.

 

[hchman]

Make sure you check your computer specs to make sure what the max is that it can handle.