How to Change Your BIOS After Adding RAM

By Bonnie Conrad

Updated September 28, 2017

Use the keyboard to enter the BIOS
i computer image by blaine stiger from Fotolia.com

Adding more RAM is one of the most cost effective computer upgrades you can do. Adding additional RAM to your computer will make it perform faster. That extra memory can boost the performance of all of your programs. But when you get done adding that extra memory, it is important to make sure your computer recognizes the upgrade. You can check the memory status by entering the computer's BIOS.

Shut down the computer and press the power button. Watch for a message that says "press X to enter setup." The key sequence used to enter the BIOS varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. For instance, many Dell computers use the "F2" key, while HP computers generally use the "F10" key instead.

Press the appropriate key to enter the computer's BIOS. Look for the "Settings" or "Hardware" menu and click on it.

Review the amount of RAM listed in the computer's BIOS. Make sure that the amount of memory reflects your recent upgrade. Press the appropriate key to save the BIOS settings and exit. This key sequence will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Most HP computers, for instance, will use the "F10" key, while many Dells will use the "F2" or "F12" key instead.

Turn off the computer and remove the case if the additional memory is not reflected in the computer's BIOS. Remove the new memory module and reseat it carefully.

Turn the computer on and watch the memory count. The memory count should reflect the addition of the new RAM module. If the memory is still not recognized the RAM might be faulty.

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