Required RAM

I feel stupid for even asking this. I should know this.

When software (such as an antivirus program) say the system requirements for XP are 64MB of RAM but 128MB is recommended, what does that mean? Does it mean that software needs that much RAM to run? Or does it mean that's how much it requires to run smoothly on XP? Or does it mean something different?

My current AV software supposedly requires 32MB RAM. I need to switch to something else but most require 64MB to 128MB. I find that outrageous. Shouldn't it be the other way around? Shouldn't newer programs require less system resources?

 

Things get fatter, and hunger for more resources. Tis the way of computing life.

That said, the requirements don't mean they will use that much. It means that much is needed for the program (and OS) to keep functioning.

 

Thank you. I have just one more question (I hope).

Looking at my current antivirus software, it says:
Total Memory = 512 MB
Free Memory = 112 MB

What does the free memory mean exactly? I know what the 512 means - that's how much RAM my computer has. I just don't know where the 112 MB is coming from.

 

You have 512mb installed.

Your system is using 400mb.

You have 112mb free.