What Does Enabling XMP Do?

XMP uses some RAM storage to save a profile for speed and timing that the RAM can safely run.

Enabling XMP configures the memory to run at the speed and timings for which it’s rated.

ASrock BIOS

Typical access keys includeDel,F2, andF10, though yours may vary.

Check your motherboard’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for details.

Look for the XMP profile toggle.

If you see it on your UEFI/BIOS home screen, switch it toOn, then skip to Step 6.

Otherwise, proceed to the next step.

In this case, there’s nothing it’s possible for you to do.

You’ll need to upgrade your motherboard to use XMP.

If necessary, enableAdvanced Modeon your UEFI/BIOS.

It’s often F7, but again, it depends on your motherboard.

Typically, that information is in the bottom-right corner.

Navigate to the overclocking section of your BIOS.

This may be calledAI Tuner,AI Tweaker,Performance,Extreme Tweaker,Overclocking parameters, or similar.

Scroll through the list of options until you find the XMP profile toggle.

Switch it toOnby pressing the enter key on it or clicking it and selectingOnfrom the drop-down menu.

Some motherboards, like the one shown below, require you to load theXMP Profile.

keep your BIOS parameters and quit.

you could do this by selecting theExitbutton with your keyboard or mouse and selecting to keep your controls.

Alternatively, use the traditionalF10key.

When prompted, confirm your choice.

How Do I Know if XMP Is Enabled?

it’s possible for you to also use Windows software likeCPUZto confirm yourmemory’s speed.

If not, run through the steps again to double-check you have enabled it correctly.

When a manufacturer creates an XMP profile, it determines the maximum speed your RAM can run safely at.

The XMP profile allows the RAM to run at this speed.

Going over this maximum speed can cause instability issues, though.

RAMstands for Random Access Memory.

It’s the physical memory inside your box that allows it to run its operating system and programs.

The more RAM your box has, the more tasks and information it can handle at once.

Open it and scroll down toInstalled Physical Memory (RAM).

On Mac, open theApple menuand selectAbout This Mac>Memory.