I’m publishing a summary checklist of basic steps you can take to resolve this issue, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient care, because several readers write about their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Possibly the greatest factor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Usually this is associated with downloading an application that contains spyware, by not having browser security settings large enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by failing to install security patches in a timely manner.
Action 1. Update the explanations of your antivirus and operate a full scan of your hard drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Notice that some viruses require extra steps until they may be removed; typically a internet search will find specific directions or a special removal tool. If you fail to find a solution, use the Bc forums to obtain help.
2. If the sluggishness is unexpected, and you have recently downloaded an application, the problem might dwell there. Check this by completely eliminating it. A sensible user will generally perform a web search about the program before getting because in most instances, any possible issue with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Stage 3. Adware and Spyware can dramatically effect your personal computer’s operation, and these are around the World wide web. A very recent research indicated that one out-of every 20 executable files on Web sites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains include at least one piece of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Update the definitions of your anti-spyware programs and scan your hard drives in Safe Mode. Seasoned users will frequently run 2 or 3 of the applications, because each business has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A listing of really great, free anti-spyware applications is given by BC). Again, solve any open issues before continuing to the next phase.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Review applications that self-launching on startup. You pc can become a battleground for your interest. Many programs, for example, install a quick-launch feature that enables them to be opened rapidly; other programs will comprise an automated update feature that demands them to be working in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each requires a small bit of assets while your computer is running.
The simplest approach to review and than to manage startups would be to work with one of the numerous little utilities available (see the Bc list of free programs). If, for instance, you have Spybot Search and Destroy, you may use its startup tool that lists startups and enables you to turn off any you don’t need. Remember that BC maintains a really complete Startup Database that includes info about whether the item is required, discretionary, or not needed, if you are unsure about what may be safely deleted.
At-the same time, remember that all those icons on your own Desktop also take a small amount of trunk time to set themselves.
Absence of Maintenance
Step 5. Delete unused applications and exchange old files to your CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have opened, applications you have not found in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are a few types of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Clean-up to delete temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for high level users: some specialists would include the additional care stage of cleaning the Windows registry, and you will find several programs to assist try this. For the most part, registry maintenance will not make a major difference, and unless you are really comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of the registry, you may do significant damage by creating registry modifications, so this step is not included
Action 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it fix 0xfaf6.
Action 7. Defragment your computer. Windows tends to set new files in any available open space; defragging will place related segments of files closer together so your read arm has less travelling around the hard drive to do, saving wear-and tear while speeding up programs.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you will see a noticeable enhancement in computer operation.