RAM (Random Access Memory) is the most important component of a computer. There are derivatives of RAM such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) which work more efficiently, but the main thing to keep in mind is to have enough of any type of RAM for your computer. Without a sufficient amount (at least 2GB) at present for normal activities, it will be uncomfortable using your computer. You will be waiting a lot of time for every activity or program to reload.
RAM is the memory that allows the user to keep many programs open at once. The more the RAM amount the more programs can be open without locking up and/or slowing down. The RAM is where the programs are kept so you can move between programs. If there is insufficient memory there will be a lag because the information needed at the time cannot be handled by the RAM. To counteract this some programs will need to be closed.
The processor speed is important, but without the programs opened being easily accessed, enabling the user to move between them, progress will be slow. If more RAM is needed, it can be easily put in. Make sure the computer you purchase has the ability to take more RAM.
When heading out to the stores or purchasing online, buy a computer with sufficient RAM or with the ability to upgrade. You can pay less for now for a computer with less RAM and pay later for an upgrade. The netbooks available now have only 1GB of RAM. For email and simple word processing on the run, this can be a bargain. It is not a replacement if you work with multiple programs.
The most important element in choosing a computer is RAM. Processor speed is not the determining factor. Every program or website is now loaded with graphics. This alone demands that a computer have sufficient RAM to handle it. The advertisements that are loaded at each website alone can slow down a computer with insufficient RAM.
