Speed Up Slow Computers
There are many reasons why a computer may be running slow. Sometimes it may be related to software or hardware, while other times it may be due to malware. Whatever the reason, you should find the solution here. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to speed up a slow computer. Please note that the instructions below are for Windows users.
Note: If one step doesn't work, continue on to the next step (not all steps will be required).
Contents
| Step 1 - Uninstall Unnecessary Programs |
| Step 2 – Remove Temporary Files |
| Step 3 – Scan for and Remove Malware |
| Step 4 – Use Only One Antivirus Program |
| Step 5 - Fix Hard Disk Errors |
| Step 6 - Fix Windows System Files |
| Step 7 – Update Hardware Drivers |
| Conclusion |
Step 1 - Uninstall Unnecessary Programs
New computers will frequently include pre-installed software that is useless and will often overuse system resources. Look through the programs and uninstall the ones you don't need. Furthermore, if you installed software that you no longer use, uninstall it. To uninstall programs, click Windows start button, click Control Panel, then click Uninstall a program.
Common pre-installed software include antivirus trial software, search engine toolbars, games, and music services.
Step 2 - Remove Temporary Files
In order to speed up web browsing, web browsers store visited web pages on the computer’s hard disk. These web pages are stored in the temporary Internet files (cache) folder. When this folder fills up with too much data, the computer's performance can suffer. Additionally, Windows and many programs create temporary files when they run.
Once installed, simply click the Run Cleaner button at the bottom right. You are warned that CCleaner is about to permanently remove files from the system. Click OK to proceed.
Step 3 - Scan for and Remove Malware
Malware is the general term for viruses, trojans, spyware, rootkits, and any other malicious software. If you think your computer is infected with malware, follow the steps in this malware removal guide. Signs of malicious software
Step 4 – Use Only One Antivirus Program
Make sure that you are not using more than one antivirus program on each computer. Running two or more antivirus programs is likely to cause a conflict, which could result in crashes, error messages, or slow computer performance. Also, make sure that you are using reputable antivirus software: Best Free Security Software for Windows
Step 5 - Fix Hard Disk Errors
The hard disk drive can develop errors as you use the computer, which will result in slow performance. Fortunately, Windows includes a tool called Check Disk that can fix “problems related to bad sectors, lost clusters, cross-linked files, and directory errors.” Follow these instructions to use Check Disk:
Click Windows start button, and then click Computer. Right-click the hard disk that you want to check, and then clickProperties. Select the Tools tab, and then click Check now. Select both options, and then click Start.
Step 6 - Fix Windows System Files
Windows system files can become corrupted due to various reasons. Fortunately, Windows includes another useful tool calledSystem File Checker (SFC) that scans for missing or corrupted system files and repairs them.
To use System File Checker, press the Windows logo key and the R key together. Then type sfc /scannow in the box and clickOK.
+ R
Note: There's a space between sfc and /scannow. Once the scan is complete, restart the computer.
Step 7 – Update Hardware Drivers
When a hardware driver is outdated or corrupted, it can cause your computer to freeze up or even crash. To update the hardware devices, follow the instructions on this page. What hardware device drivers should be updated?
Conclusion
If the computer is still running slow after following all of the above steps, you may want to consider buying a new one. If you like this guide, please share it or leave a comment.
Obtained at: http://www.selectrealsecurity.com/slow-computer/
Last Updated: June 7, 2012