If you've ever noticed the size of your swap file increasing and your computer constantly waiting on your hard drive, you've probably asked how you could control it all. Though it is possible to modify the size of the swap file, we don't recommend it unless you are a computer expert; or are willing to assume total responsibility for the activity.

The swap file is the portion of your hard disk that Windows uses for virtual memory. Whenever your actual RAM is exceeded, Windows uses the swap file to move items in and out of RAM. This operation happens a lot more often than you think, and interfering with the size of the swap file could cause some of your memory-hogging programs to run poorly.

It is possible, however, to move the swap file to another disk or partition you may have, if that helps to free up disk space on your main drive. Right-click on the My Computer icon and choose Properties. Select the Performance tab and click the Virtual Memory button. Click the Let Me Specify My Own Virtual Memory Settings box, and then select another disk from the Hard Disk list. (Of course, this technique won't be possible if you don't have more than one hard drive or partition.) When you're done, click OK and then Close. You'll have to restart your computer before the settings take effect.