Slow Computer Performance

Simple solutions for a slow computer

Most common solutions and fixes for slow computer performance are to check your PC for enough RAM  ,(Random Access Memory), clean and repair your registry, clean your computer from spyware or viruses, make sure your Windows operating system has the latest Windows updates and perform regular basic maintenance tasks.

What can I do to fix my slow computer?

Maintaining and fine tuning your PC system to run at its maximum potential will most definitely help repair your sluggish computer's use and bring back its original performance but does require effort and a little bit of computer knowledge and experience.

Data backup

Before troubleshooting your PC to help find the best solutions and fixes, save your all your important files - photos, videos, music, financial, personal documents, bookmarks, etc. Don't forget to backup your important data before performing or running any computer repairs or serious maintenance. Running utility software such as Antivirus or Malware programs can sometimes cause and add to your PC's lack of performance and can even cause loss of access to your files after removing viruses or Malware.

Run disk cleanup

Use Windows Disk Cleanup to delete all of the temporary files located in your temp directory this utility will free up space on your hard drive and help increase your PC's performance. Also, disk cleanup will delete all temporary Internet, system error, archived Windows system files and any deleted files in their recycle bin. You can also schedule Disk Cleanup by turning on Automatic Maintenance.

Defragment hard disk

Disk Defragmenter consolidates files so that each is saved in contiguous space (physical space) on the hard drive. When your PC freezes or crashes this will cause your file to become fragmented, in turn, will cause your computer's programs to run sluggishly. Defragment your hard disk on a regular basis will help maintain your computer's performance.

Remove unused programs

Uninstall old software programs that you don't use anymore they can take up disk space and slow down your PC's performance or potentially damaging. Uninstalling unused programs is a one way to free up disk space, which in return will help speed up your system. Also, removing unused applications first will extend the need for your next defrag.

Update Windows

You may or may not be aware that hundreds if not thousands of attempts by Hackers looking for vulnerabilities on operating systems are made every day. It is very important to keep your security on your computer updated through Microsoft Windows updates. Microsoft's updates also include important updates for your hardware drivers, Internet Explorer browser, and fixes for Windows operating system.

Clean and repair registry

Overtime Registry Errors and other related malfunctions can arise when the operating system becomes overloaded with worthless system references, as well as corrupted and deleted registry files. This can cause error messages and sluggish computer performance. Cleaning Windows registry can help keep your computer system running smoothly and efficiently.

Update drivers

It is recommended that you keep your PC updated with the latest drivers such as video drivers. Sometimes out-of-date drivers can cause slow performance and other related issues. Drivers are pieces of software that allow the computer itself to cooperate with a hardware device.

Check for malware

Malware (for "malicious software") is any program or file that is harmful to a PC user. Malware software can range from being simple annoyances (pop-up advertising) to causing serious PC invasion and damage (e.g., stealing passwords and data or infecting other machines on the network). Clean your slow computer by using an anti-malware software utility program or malware cleaner.

Disable startup programs

Startup programs run when Windows starts. They run in the background and depending on how many are running can dramatically affect your PC's performance. Disabling startup programs will help speed up your system's performance.

Run antivirus software

A virus is designed to infect other computer programs or data, modify, destroy, consume resources, record or transmit data and disrupt the computer systems normal operation. You can run BillGuard's Online virus scan for Free. Please be aware and choose your anti-virus software wisely, since some can actually add to your initial problem of a slow performance.

Reset Internet Explorer

Has Malware infected your browser, having problems, nasty pop-up windows? is your browser locking up? hanging? Here is how to reset your browser and get rid of that nasty Malware.

Adjust display performance

If you aren’t too concerned about the visual effects for your monitor's display appearance, you can speed up the screen substantially by adjusting your Windows display performance. Microsoft gives you three visual effects options you can choose from plus 20 visual effects to turn off, by selecting one by one.