There are more effective solutions to fix your slow PC than constantly switching it on and off. You might also need to learn some new techniques if your computer crashes every time you open multiple applications.
Did you know 1 out of 10 people have never decluttered their computers and have years’ worth of outdated data, downloads, and images clogging up their PCs? However, just like a basket full of laundry, your computer needs regular TLC. Even if you have splurged on one of the best WiFi systems, the equipment may be the problem rather than your connectivity.
Fortunately, you can speed up your computer easily with a specific strategy. If you want to fix your computer safely and efficiently, keep reading!
Why Is My Computer Slow?
The amount of processing power required to run many programs impacts speed and performance. There are two ways to address this: first, reduce the number of open apps; second, boost your computer’s processing capability and RAM.
How to Fix a Slow Computer: 11 Tips and Tricks
Add More RAM
You might need to add more memory if your PC displays error warnings and files take a long time to load. Although this differs from the total storage on your hard drive, adding more storage will improve your computer’s multitasking abilities.
Adding extra RAM can be helpful if you often run multiple programs simultaneously. First, you need to determine how much RAM your PC currently has. Also, remember that computers can only support a certain amount of RAM.
Generally, manufacturers such as Lenovo, HP, and Toshiba offer 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB options. These are all reasonably priced solutions to improve system performance, allowing for fewer delays, quicker start-up, and simple switching between applications.
As an alternative, you could consider using Windows’ integrated ReadyBoost feature, which enables you to enhance the performance of your computer without adding more RAM.
Get Rid of Unnecessary Photos and Files
Sifting through the files and images on your PC might be overwhelming, but by deleting the ones you don’t use, you can speed up the process and prevent your computer from stalling or crashing. These are quick and easy ways to get your computer working faster for longer. As with your tablet and smartphone, you can clear up space by uninstalling any programs you don’t use.
We understand that this can be quite a time-consuming task. Therefore, to make it slightly more bearable, you can take 30 minutes each day to delete all the stuff you don’t need.
Use High-quality Anti-virus Software
Malware causes your computer to run slower than usual. You identify this by noticing unexpected pop-ups, a loud PC, and apps that start randomly. Malware isn’t always this obvious. Therefore, you might need something more reliable to ensure there aren’t harmful viruses on your PC.
According to Microsoft, running anti-virus/anti-malware software and constantly updating is the best way to deal with viruses and harmful software – for instance, Windows 11 includes Windows Security, which will check your computer for viruses and other dangerous software.
Remove Unused Software and Bloatware
Look carefully at the preloaded files and programs on your new computer. You don’t need all of them.
Branded manufacturers are constantly installing free trials, or “bloatware,” to generate some money when switching to premium subscriptions.
However, many of these carry on in the background and slow down your computer significantly. Therefore, you should go through each app and uninstall those you don’t use. There are probably a few you’ve never even opened!
Check Your Internet Connection and Web Browser
We understand that this can be quite a time-consuming task. Therefore, to make it slightly more bearable, you can take 30 minutes each day to delete all the stuff you don’t need.
If your PC is running slower than usual, check to see if you have the latest web browser version. Depending on the browser, there will be an About selection to show you the version number. Enable the option to install updated versions automatically. Too many add-ons and extensions might slow down your online browsing experience. Again, based on your browser, you should be able to get rid of unwanted extensions and add-ons.
Substance vs. Style: Substance Wins Every Time
Even though appearances are crucial, special effects occasionally cause your PC to run slowly, especially if there isn’t sufficient memory.
Various visual effects, such as shadow effects and animations, are included with Windows 11; however, you can modify them to fit your machine and keep it operating efficiently.
Shut Down Your Computer Every Day
Even though it might be easier to set your PC to “sleep” after a long day, many background apps will keep running if you don’t completely shut it down, which can cause the performance to lag. Shutting down and restarting your PC every day is an excellent habit.
Giving your PC a proper shutdown and restart regularly will resolve many problems and boost performance. After all, the first thing anyone will ask you when experiencing issues with your computer is, “Did you restart it?”
Clear Temporary Files and Delete the Recycle Bin
Unwanted files stay in your recycle bin once you’ve deleted them, meaning they’re still stored and taking up space. Routinely empty your recycle bin because it might take up additional space on your PC. Naturally, your computer will perform better if there’s more space on the hard drive.
Your PC will also accumulate temporary files; however, you can quickly eliminate them. If you have Windows 10 or 11, here’s how to remove these files:
- Choose ‘Settings’ from the start menu.
- Click on ‘Storage.’
- Select your hard drive after clicking on ‘This PC.’
- Choose ‘Temporary Files.’
- Click on ‘Recycle Bin’ followed by ‘Empty Recycle Bin.’
- Choose “Delete Temporary Files’ under ‘Temporary Files.’
- Click on ‘View Downloads’ under the ‘Downloads’ tab and delete all the files you don’t need.
Disable Start Up Programs
On your PC, certain apps are configured to launch simultaneously with Windows. Even though it isn’t easy to know which ones are active, having too many operate at simultaneously can cause delays.
To prevent start-up apps from starting automatically, you must manually change the settings on your PC.
Boost Your WiFi Signal
You can improve your WiFi in a variety of ways. A few simple fixes include:
- Try to avoid scheduling your high-bandwidth jobs at the same time. Your connection will be strained by streaming in UHD, downloading larger files, streaming music, making video calls, and even playing multiplayer online games. If you can avoid it, don’t complete these activities simultaneously, as your WiFi might not be able to handle it all.
- When you can, connect via ethernet to give yourself peace of mind. The reliable connectivity will help you stay calm when preparing for a presentation or important video call.
- To avoid WiFi signal interference, check that your network adapter drivers are current and that nothing is blocking the WiFi signal from your hub. Believe it or not, having clutter around your hub affects your WiFi strength.
Upgrade Your Computer’s Storage Device to an SSD
Try changing your computer’s storage device to an SSD if it is noticeably slow, noisy, and crashes often. Your computer will need to be opened, so if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, get a specialist to assist you. Many SSDs come with disk cloning software, allowing you to make an exact copy of your computer’s system before using it.
Changing your hard drive to an SSD will speed up your PC start-up time and decrease the time needed to open larger files. The process will vary depending on whether you have an older or new laptop or desktop PC; if you’re unsure which option to choose, get an expert’s opinion.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know how to fix a slow computer, you can return to working efficiently and effectively. There’s nothing worse than having a slow computer ruin your workflow, especially when you’re in a good groove. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about this again.
If you tried these tips and tricks and have the same problem, you might be dealing with something more significant. Luckily the experts at CNG Tech are here to help with all IT problems at an affordable rate. Contact us at (951) 317-9562 to get a free quote.
