How can insufficient RAM affect a workstation?

Insufficient RAM can significantly impact a workstation’s performance, primarily by causing slowdowns and freezes. When a computer does not have enough RAM to manage the active applications and processes, it begins to rely on virtual memory, which uses the hard drive as a temporary storage space. This reliance is much slower than accessing data directly from RAM, leading to increased latency and delayed responses. As a result, users may experience frustrating lags, application crashes, or complete system freezes, particularly when attempting to multitask or use resource-intensive applications.

Higher amounts of RAM allow for smoother operation and the ability to keep multiple applications open simultaneously without affecting performance negatively. In contrast, a lack of RAM restricts a workstation's efficiency and responsiveness, which can be particularly detrimental in professional environments where time and productivity are crucial.