A computer's ability to remember information depends on its ability to hold data in RAM or on its hard drive. RAM acts as short-term memory and allows for faster processing than the hard drive, but filling RAM can cause the processor to access the hard drive more slowly. Adding more RAM generally improves a computer's performance and usability, but each system has a limit on how much it can hold. Regular cleaning and maintenance of a computer can help prevent costly repairs and keep the system running smoothly.