1. Check for Spyware and Viruses
Home Computer
© Hannaford (Flickr)
As well as being a potential threat to your online security, spyware, malware and viruses can be one of the major causes of a slow running PC, especially if you spend a lot of time surfing the internet or do not have a functioning firewall. To remove spyware, download one of the many free spyware removers from the internet.
2. Clean your registry
When performing a PC check, be sure to perform a computer registry cleaning program. This will remove any temporary files such as cookies and user caches which are slowing your PC down. Duplicate files can also slow down your PC’s performance. If you have any unused programs, removing these can also help.
3. Speed up access to data
Over time, your PC’s hard disk drive becomes cluttered as files of different formats begin to get written in different areas of your PC’s memory. Running a disk defragmentation reconfigures the layout of files in your hard drive into one area, meaning your PC doesn’t have to work as hard to find each individual file.
4. Check your RAM
Random Access Memory or RAM is a measure of your PC’s ability to process information. More RAM in your PC means faster computing when using multiple open programs or doing high capacity work. In some extreme cases, the only way to fix slow PCs is to have more RAM added to your PC. You can do this yourself if skilled enough, or take it to a professional. Adding more RAM is a surefire way to speed up your computer.
5. Give your PC a break
Many of us simply turn of the monitor at the end of the day, without turning our computer off. Leaving your PC running for long periods of time, especially laptops, causes the internal components of the PC to overheat. This in turn wears out the internal workings of the computer and slows the PC down. Turning your PC off at the end of the day allows the computer to reboot, install important updates and more importantly cool down. All of these factors can help speed up your PC.