7 Remedies for Slow Computers

If you’re asking the question “Why is my computer so slow?”, you are not alone. It’s one of the most common concerns for computer users. Your machine can slow down for various reasons. Some issues are easily fixable. For others, you might need to look into the problem more closely. Below are 7 tips to help remedy your slow technology.

1. Remove Unnecessary Programs

Even an unused background program or application requires processing time, memory, and hard drive space. Your computer has limited resources. and unnecessary applications can slow down your machine. Depending on your usage patterns, you should schedule weekly or monthly inspections to determine what applications you have installed on your machine. Removing the unnecessary programs will ensure better performance. Even if you decide to keep a particular application, it might not need to run on startup. Operating systems run programs like audio players or email apps automatically to keep them ready for use. You can go to the startup menu and disable the ones you don’t use frequently. These disabled programs will then run only when you click on the icon. You’ll have more resources for the applications you use regularly.

2. Resolve Hard Drive Issues

The state of your hard drive can determine the speed of your computer. Newer Solid State Drives (SSDs) have better performance. So, if you are getting a new computer, try to get an SSD. Another important practice is to keep your hard drive clean. As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to only use 70% of your hard drive. Operating systems need free space to perform various tasks. An almost full hard drive can slow things down. If you notice you are getting near the 70% mark, you can purchase an external drive to store your files.

3. Increase Memory

The random access memory (RAM) helps your computers run faster. It’s a place to store information in between the computer processor and the hard disk to allow faster access. If you are running programs like video editing or gaming applications, that require a lot of information swapping, then your computer performance can slow down due to lack of sufficient memory. Increasing the RAM can help with this kind of problem. Most modern computers come with 8GB of RAM. You can purchase extra RAMs and add it to your machine.

4. Check Your Anti-Virus Program

Anti-virus programs are necessary to protect computers. But scanning for threats can slow your computer down. Check the program’s scheduler to make sure the scans run during off-hours when you are not using your machine.

5. Close Browser Windows and Tabs

When you are working on a project, you might often open multiple browser windows and tabs on Chrome or Internet Explorer. Each of those takes up resources and slows down your computer. If your machine is slow, closing the unused browser windows and tabs can help.

6. Resolve Virus, Malware and Plugin Issues

Your anti-virus program will help you prevent problems with viruses and malware. But it’s not 100% effective. If you suspect that your computer is infected, get help from your IT department or managed service provider to find a resolution to the problem. Another modern threat is web browser plugins. If you notice your computer slows down after a new plugin installation, it might be badly designed and hogging resources. Immediately uninstall it.

7. Regularly Clean Your Computer

Most people clean their computers for hygienic reasons. However, it also helps your computer run faster. Accumulated dust traps heat, which can slow down the operations of the processor and the memory. Do a simple visual check occasionally to make sure vents are not clogged by dust and that there is ample room for your computer to “breathe”. You can use compressed air or vacuum cleaners to remove dusk from various external parts of your machine.

Sometimes Upgrading is the Only Solution

If you have an older computer, it might just be incompatible with newer operating systems and programs. In that case, your only option may be to buy a new machine to improve performance.

Are you facing slowdown issues with your computers or IT equipment? At Cleartech Group, we have built a reputation for providing premium technical support. Contact us today at (978) 466-1938 or online at www.cleartechgroup.com. We can help.