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ReadyBoost is Not Working: 5 Tested Solutions to Fix
If your system runs on an SSD, ReadyBoost will not work
3 min. read
Published onJuly 2, 2024
published onJuly 2, 2024
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ReadyBoost can be a lifesaver for those with older systems, but it can be frustrating when it doesn’t work as expected. First, make sure you have a compatible flash drive or SD card and check if you have over 4 GB of RAM. Also, if your system is installed on an SSD, ReadyBoost won’t work because your flash storage is faster than a USB drive.
1. Verify the system requirements
ReadyBoost is designed to enhance systems with low memory. If your system already has sufficient RAM, enabling ReadyBoost might not provide any noticeable performance improvements, which is why Windows may disable it by default.
2. Format the USB drive or SD card
Formatting the USB drive to NTFS can resolve compatibility issues with ReadyBoost. This ensures the drive meets the performance requirements necessary for ReadyBoost to function properly.
3. Enable the ReadyBoost service
If the ReadyBoost service isn’t running, your USB drive won’t be tested or used for ReadyBoost. Setting the service to start automatically ensures it will be ready to use when you plug in compatible hardware.
4. Check Disk Speed
ReadyBoost requires a minimum read speed to function properly. If your USB drive does not meet these requirements, it will not work with ReadyBoost. Speed testing your drive ensures it meets the performance criteria.
5. Delete the ReadyBoost cache file
Sometimes, the ReadyBoost cache file can become corrupted, preventing ReadyBoost from functioning correctly. Deleting the old cache file forces Windows to create a new one, potentially resolving any issues.
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix any issues with ReadyBoost if it’s not working.
You may also check our guide on how toenable and use ReadyBoost on Windows 10, or learn what to do if theReadyBoost tab is missing from Windows 11.
Use the comments section below if you have questions or additional suggestions.
More about the topics:USB flash drive,Windows
Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, Claudiu is focused on whatever comes new from Microsoft.
His abrupt interest in computers started when he saw the first Home Computer as a kid. However, his passion for Windows and everything related became obvious when he became a sys admin in a computer science high school.
With 14 years of experience in writing about everything there is to know about science and technology, Claudiu also likes rock music, chilling in the garden, and Star Wars. May the force be with you, always!
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Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, with 14 years of experience in writing on everything there is to know about science, technology, and Microsoft
