Memory explanation required please

[anozzie]

Hi there ..its not much of a title but I didnt want to say my computers slow...
What I would like to understand if someone can explain is why?
when you open more and more applications .. ie: messenger and a browser and maybe look at a few photos at the same time or whatever..the computer slows down and eventually freezes up... but when you close these different programs the computer does'nt seem to recover.. it does'nt seem to "let go" I notice this a lot when we are flicking through hundreds of photos.... its as if the computer is trying to hang onto all the things its done even after you have closed them down..
Sorry that is the best explanation I can give ....what could be wrong if that was the case? how can you "empty the Ram if that was the case? why isnt there a empty mem button
well I know there is control alt del... but thats not what im after.... i want to know how should it and why its not refreshing itself? in neewby terms
pentium 4 .. 3.0 mhz .. 1 g ram... 256 mb radion graphics..windows xp

Best regards Phill

 

[The_Other_One]

You should have plenty of RAM, so it's probably not a lack of RAM issue, but just software problems. I'd try to isolate what's causing the problem. Under task manager, you should see what programs are utilizing the most RAM and processor power. If anythings uncommonly high, maybe try reloading the program.

And of course, it's a good idea to run your typical virus and spyware scan if you're not done so recently.

 

[anozzie]

Thanks for the answer, I will keep an eye on what the different processes use.. I did run a different program called superantispyware and it found and removed a few trojans that I havent been able to budge ...so maybe things will improve.. then again perhaps Im expecting to much