Short of a new computer with a super-fast processor, the one thing that's sure to improve the performance of Windows is additional memory. However, if you've already reached your PC's memory limit, or simply don't fancy rooting around inside to install some extra memory, what can you do? Well, if you're a Windows Vista user you might wantto try Readyboost.

This feature can make use of free storage on a USB memory key to supplement the computer's internal memory. Once enabled, Readyboost works entirely automatically, grabbing space on the USB key as and when needed. Here's how to make use of it.

TO MAKE USE OF Readyboost, you need three things: a PC running Windows Vista; a spare USB2 socket; and a USB2 memory key with some free storage space.Take the USB memory key and insert it into the socket. If you have Wi ndows' Autoplay feature enabled, a dialogue box will appear. Select'Speed up my computer'. If this doesn't appear, right-click on the USB memory key's drive icon in Windows Explorer and choose Properties. Now click the Readyboost tab. Not all USB memory keys will work with Readyboost - if yours doesn't work, new models marked'Enhanced for Readyboost' cost as little as £1 S.

CLICK TO SELECT THE 'Use th is device' option a nd then move the slider control left or right to indicate how much storage space Readyboost should use to help speed up Vista. Note that Vista does suggest an amount and, unless you have good reason to change this, we'd stick with its recommendation.

Click OK and Readyboost is now working. How much, if any, of a performance improvement will be noticeable will depend on several factors, including how much space has been allocated to Readyboost and how quickly the USB memory key operates.To turn off Readyboost,just follow this workshop again, selecting 'Do not use this device' on the Readyboost tab.