How to Fix My Slow PC Problem

Fix your slow PC.

A computer that is functioning slowly can seriously reduce your productivity. Thankfully, you do not need to be an IT professional to fix a slow computer. There are simple steps that you can take to fix your slow computer and maintain an acceptable speed.

Things You'll Need

• Anti-virus software
• Operating system discs

Instructions

1. Remove any adware and spyware on your system. Run an anti-virus program to eliminate any spyware or adware that is running in the background. These harmful programs slow your computer down by taking away valuable system resources and in some cases by destabilizing your operating system. An anti-virus program will scan your hard drive, identify these harmful programs and eliminate them.

2. Clean your web browser's cache. Navigate to the control panel of your system and click the "Internet Options" icon. In the general tab under browsing history click the delete button. When prompted select "Delete all" to erase all of your temporary Internet files.

3. Run the disk defragmenter. Defragging your hard drive rearranges the files on your system so that they can be accessed quicker, which in turns speeds up your computer. Navigate to your control panel and click on the "Defragment" icon. Click the "Start" button to begin. The process usually lasts about an hour.

4. Stop any programs running in the background that you are not using. Simultaneously press the "Ctrl," "Alt" and "Delete" keys to bring up the task manager. Review the programs that are running and close the ones that you are not using. Only close the programs that you are familiar with to avoid shutting down a program that is needed by your operating system (OS) to function.

5. Free up space on your hard drive. Delete any files that you no longer need. Old emails, PDFs, music, photos, videos and software programs all take up space on your hard drive. All of these extra files slow down your computer. After deleting the files remember to empty your recycling bin since they will not truly be gone unless the bin is empty.

6. Increase the amount of Random Access Memory (RAM) in your system. Install a module of memory into an available slot in your computer. This will improve the speed of your computer by increasing the amount of system resources available.

7. Download updates. Regularly download updates for your operating system to ensure that your computer continues to operate at an optimal level.

8. Reinstall your operating system. If all else fails, do a clean install of your operating system. Back up all of your files and insert your system software CD into your computer. When you are prompted, choose the option to erase your hard drive and install your OS. Your computer will run at the factory speed when the installation has completed.

Tips & Warnings

• Always double check your files before you delete them.

References

• Microsoft: 5 Ways to Speed up your PC
• Microsoft: Optimize your computer for peak performance
• Pcworld: Is your PC slow? Try these tricks

Resources

• PC Magazine: 50 top computing tips