A Windows 11 PC showing more than 50% RAM usage with few apps open can look alarming, but the Engadget article explains this is usually normal. Modern Windows treats RAM as a resource to use, not conserve, preloading frequently used apps and files through the SysMain service. This makes the system feel faster, even if it means most of your memory is occupied.
The article advises checking the Performance tab's "Available" memory rather than "In use," since cached data counts as available and can be reclaimed instantly. High usage only becomes a problem when the system is slow, apps crash, or you get low-memory alerts — then check the Processes tab, restart to fix memory leaks, and disable unnecessary startup apps.
For businesses, the practical takeaway is to avoid unnecessary upgrades or "memory cleaner" tools, which can slow systems by forcing data to the page file. The article suggests upgrading from 8GB to 16GB for users who genuinely need more headroom, and notes that disabling SysMain is only recommended for older PCs with mechanical hard drives.