: Over time, a page file can become bloated or fragmented. Clearing it "resets" the virtual memory space, which can sometimes resolve sluggishness or errors related to memory management.
gpedit.msc → Computer Config → Windows Settings → Security Settings → Local Policies → Security Options → “Shutdown: Clear virtual memory page file” → Enabled
After restarting, return to the same menu and either check or set a Custom size to recreate the file. 2. Clear Page File at Shutdown (Best for Security) clear page file
Go to > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options . Locate Shutdown: Clear virtual memory pagefile . Double-click it, select Enabled , and click OK . Important Considerations
your computer. This deletes the physical pagefile.sys . : Over time, a page file can become bloated or fragmented
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management
Segmented Deployment.
When the registry key HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Memory Management\ClearPageFileAtShutdown is set to , the Windows I/O Manager creates a system thread during the shutdown process. This thread zeroes out (writes zeros to) the paging file, effectively erasing all data within it.
By enabling this feature, Windows overwrites the entire page file with zeros during the shutdown process, ensuring no readable data remains on the physical disk. Performance vs. Security Double-click it, select Enabled , and click OK
You can configure Windows to overwrite the page file with zeros every time you turn off your PC. This will significantly increase your shutdown time.