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When the computer does that, it's increasing the size of the hard disk that virtual memory resides on. Typically it's an indication that a computer needs more RAM for the tasks you're using it for. Basically, you're trying to do too much at one time for the resources it has. RAM, which you can buy pretty inexpensively at the store these days btw, is the memory that holds what you're currently utilizing at your fingertips.

Say, you've got a game going, instant messenger going, you're downloading some music and burning a CD all at the same time, along with the virus scanner, the printer manager, the network connetion, etc that your PC does routinely. Your computer has to have all that at your fingertips, rather then just as stored information on the hard drive. The more RAM you have, the more of that stuff it can serve up to you quickly. If it runs out of room before you run out of things for it to be doing, it uses the hard drive to try to compensate. You'll also hear that space on the hard drive referred to as the swap file.

My advice would be add more RAM if possible. Otherwise, here's some more info on managing the swap file. As always, free advice is at-your-own-risk, as I don't know what your comfort level with manipulating an operating system is.

Optimize your Swap File