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Fixing Windows Page File Problems
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Page memory allocation is the process of taking control of programs by accessing virtual memory pages that are not stored in Random Access Memory (RAM). Its functions are to determine location of data in the auxiliary storage, determine empty pages in RAM for future use, write existing pages that has been recently modified and loaded to the auxiliary page, and load data requested into an available page. Because of these functions, page file is also considered as an extra RAM within a computer system. Also, it has been seen to extend the physical amount of available RAM in a system.
But you may come to ask: "What are these pages, and what is virtual memory?" To illustrate, let's say that you are running a program and it needs more RAM but there seems to be none anymore. Because your applications cannot find any, it will look for a substitute, the page file. Page file is also called a virtual memory since it is not physically available in RAM. The need for extra RAM happens at two particular situations: when programs are loading instructions for execution, and when a program accesses data. Programs that are currently in use seem to reach a state in which it demands for more memory as it takes instructions (from you) and the data it takes (from the program) to accomplish your instruction. During this particular state, memory needed transferred to the page file which is comparably fewer than the real process itself, is also frequently used by other programs.
However, it does not always happen that your system's virtual memory may work just fine. It will if the extra RAM your program needs can be supplied by the virtual memory, but if it doesn't, page faults may arise. In short, extra memory, or virtual memory your program tries to access is not available in RAM.
Page faults will soon cause problems in your system, as if it isn't a problem itself, by slowing down your computer during process time. This condition is known as thrashing. For example, your program is running and it needs a page, or virtual memory, but RAM doesn't have extra. Pages that have been used will be "swapped" for new use. This is actually possible. If swapping, however, hits a critical point, it thrashes down your system.
These problems can be remedied. In Windows, page file settings can be modified through the use of Control Panel. However, before proceeding with the steps which one must undertake to fix these page file problems, there must be complete understanding on the Windows Page File.
What is a "Windows Page File?
In Windows, the page file is acquired during installation. It is placed in the hard drive and is measured in megabytes (MB). Virtual memory in Windows did not appear until its 3.0 version in 1990. The memory was created as a hidden file (WIN386.SWP) for swapping. Generally, it is found in the root directory but can also be found just about anywhere. Like in Windows 95 (Win95), virtual memory can be found in Virtual Memory under Control Panel. In Windows XP, however, it is a hidden file called pagefile.sys. It can be found in the partition (drive) where you have installed your operating system. What's more, you can configure or modify Windows to use other partitions or drives as page files.
By default, a page is 1.5× of the physical memory but can be expanded for up to 3× if necessary. But technically, the size depends on the space your system has for swapping. If you have programs running on a low physical memory system, you must then set its size to a higher value.
To set the size of your virtual memory, follow these steps:
1. Go to Start menu on your desktop. Choose the Control Panel and then click System. Choose the Advance tab, and under the Performance section, click Settings.
2. A result will show you the total physical size of all page files.
3. Click the Change button to set the Virtual Memory size. Select any partition or drive you wish to change. You can choose from System Managed, Custom, or No Page File.
4. Click Set after you are done. You can also modify after partitions if you have multiple drives as you wish.
Sometimes, however, despite the prevention measures we have undertaken, the inevitable still occurs: page file errors occur.
How do I fix page file errors?
Aside from setting and adjusting your page file size to accommodate all extra memories needed, there are also some problems that are page file-related like whenever you move or delete a page file. If this happens, a blue screen will appear next time your computer starts. You will see the message: "The permanent swap file is corrupt" on your screen. Always remember to remember where you have relocated your page files and then change your settings to avoid this error.
Another error is when the "Limited Virtual Memory" message appears. To remedy this, do the following:
If your system is NT-based:
1. Click Start menu in the Taskbar of your desktop. Point to the Settings and then click Control Panel. Double click the System.
2. Click the Virtual Memory and then change the Initial Size and Maximum Size to zero. Restart your computer.
3. Repeat the process but the sizes should now be changed to the value appropriate for your system. Restart your computer again.
If your system is 2000 or higher:
1. Click Start menu in the Taskbar of your desktop. Point to the Settings and then click Control Panel. Double click the System.
2. Click Advanced, Performance Options, and Change. Change the Initial Size and Maximum Size to zero. Restart your PC.
3. Repeat the process but the sizes should now be changed to the value appropriate for your system. Restart your PC.
Although it has been stated that page file errors can really happen, it is still best to do the prevention measures mentioned so as to impede these errors from occurring.
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