I am publishing a summary record of general things you can do to solve this issue, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient maintenance, because many readers reveal their computer reacting slowly.
Malware
Maybe the greatest contributor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Generally this is related to downloading an application that includes spyware, by not having browser security options high enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by failing to install security sections in a timely manner.
Step 1. Update the definitions of your anti-virus and run a complete scan of your hard drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Note that some infections need extra measures before they could be removed; ordinarily a internet search will find specific instructions or a particular removal tool. Use the BC forums to request support, if you can’t find a solution.
Step 2. If the sluggishness is abrupt, and you’ve recently downloaded an application, the issue may rest there. Test this by completely removing it. A wise user will normally perform a internet search about the program before installing because in most instances, any potential issue with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Step three. Adware and Spyware can drastically effect your computer’s operation, and these are throughout the Web. A very recent research showed that one out-of every 20 executable files on Websites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains contain at least one piece of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Experienced users will frequently operate two or three of these programs, because each company has its own requirements for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own established. (A list of quite great, free anti-spyware programs is given by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
For further reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have really great Help files that explain how they work too as the unique features of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review programs that self-launching on startup. You pc can become a battleground for your attention. Many programs, for instance, install a quick-launch feature which allows them to be exposed quickly; other programs will comprise an automated update feature that requires them to be operating in the background. Each of these slows down your debut Windows and each needs a little bit of assets while your computer is running.
The easiest way to review and than to manage start ups is to work with one of the many small resources available (see the Bc list of free applications). Remember that BC maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that includes information about whether the item is needed, elective, or unnecessary, in case you are unsure about what can be safely deleted.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols on your Background also take a small amount of boot time to set themselves.
Absence of Upkeep
Step 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Stage 7). Delete unused programs and exchange old files to a CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files which you have already opened, applications you haven’t found in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are some types of files you can delete.
(Note for higher level users: some experts would include the additional upkeep step of cleaning the Windows registry, and you’ll find plenty of applications to assist do that. For the most part, registry care won’t make a major difference, and unless you’re quite comfy with Windows, and carefully make copies of the registry, you can do severe damage by making registry modifications, so this measure isn’t contained
Step 6. Have it fix 7023 (0x1b6f).
Stage 7. Defragment your computer. Windows will 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 hdd to do, saving wear and tear while racing up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you’ll see a marked enhancement in computer functionality.