**Surviving the RAM Price Squeeze: How Linux In-Kernel Memory Compression Can Help**

As anyone who's tried to buy new RAM recently knows, we're living through a perfect storm of high demand and low supply. AI data centers are driving up prices like never before, making it difficult for individuals and businesses alike to get the memory they need. But fear not – there's a way to squeeze more value out of your existing RAM, and it comes in the form of Linux in-kernel memory compression.

For those on Debian systems, zram-tools is the answer. This powerful tool enables and manages the Linux kernel's built-in compressed RAM facilities, integrating seamlessly with the swap-enabled virtual memory system. By utilizing zram, you can effectively double or even triple your available RAM capacity – a game-changer for anyone looking to get more mileage out of their existing hardware.

But Debian isn't the only platform that benefits from this technology. Ubuntu users should check out systemd-zram-generator, which offers a similar solution for compressing memory in real-time. And if you're lucky, your Ubuntu Desktop system may already have zram installed and configured by default – so be sure to check!

For the curious among you, the concept of in-kernel memory compression isn't new. In fact, LWN.net's 2013 article on in-kernel memory compression provides a fascinating look at how this technology has been evolving over the years.

So what's driving these sky-high RAM prices? A quick glance at memory.net reveals that some types of RAM have increased by as much as four times in just the last few months. It's a wild ride, but with zram and other tools like it, you can stay ahead of the curve and make your existing hardware work harder for you.

We'd love to hear from our readers: do you have any tips or hacks for memory compression on platforms beyond Linux? Share them with us in the comments below!