RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a crucial component that you need to install in your PC build. For those unaware, RAM is used to store data on a temporary basis and helps your computer run smoothly. RAM loses all data stored in it when you turn off the computer. With the basics out of the way, you're here to learn how to install RAM on a motherboard in your PC build. Installing RAM on a motherboard is a relatively simple process, and upgrading the RAM in an existing version can help extend the life of your computer. That said, let's not waste time and learn how to effectively install RAM on your motherboard.

In this article, we will help you identify the memory locations where you need to install the RAM. We'll explain how to align your RAMs with the memory slots, which is the primary concern for many first-time PC builders. With that, let's first look at all the things you need to take care of before the installation process.

To check which RAM is compatible with your motherboard, you need to go to the motherboard manufacturer's website and check the QVL list and the type of memory supported. We have personally observed our Ryzen APU based system crash randomly with a DDR4 RAM module that was not listed and also not designed for AMD PCs, even though it was physically supported on our B450 motherboard. Make sure to buy RAM that is compatible with your motherboard.

There are many Intel Raptor Lake and Alder Lake motherboards, such as the Z690 and Z790, that have DDR5 RAM support, which is much faster than DDR4. Additionally, AMD's latest generation Ryzen 7000 processors and AM5 motherboards only support DDR5 memory. They are clearly moving on from DDR4 memory, but Intel still gives you a choice between DDR4 and DDR5. You can read more about the same in our dedicated Intel 13th Gen i-13900K review.