I’m posting a summary checklist of general things you can do to resolve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most frequent causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient maintenance, because many readers write about their computer reacting slowly.
Malware
Maybe the greatest factor to a poorly performing computer is malware.
Step 1. Revise the definitions of your anti virus and operate a full scan of your hard drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Notice that some infections need additional measures until they can be removed; usually a web search will locate specific directions or a special removal tool. If you can’t find a solution, use the Bc forums to request assistance.
Step 2. If the slowness is surprising, and you have recently downloaded an application, the problem may dwell there. Test this by completely eliminating it. A wise user will typically perform a websearch about the application before getting because in most instances, any possible trouble with malware or inferior performance will have surfaced.
Step 3. Adware and Spyware can dramatically effect your computer’s operation, and these are all over the World wide web.
Update the definitions of your anti spyware programs and scan your hard drives in Safe Mode. Seasoned customers will regularly run 2 or 3 of these applications, because each business has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will only search against their own set. (A record of really good, free antispyware applications is provided by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before proceeding to the next phase.
For additional reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have really good Help documents that describe how they work too as the distinctive characteristics of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Evaluation applications that self-start on startup. You pc can be a arena for your interest. Many programs, for instance, install a fast-start feature that allows them to be exposed fast; other programs will include an automatic update feature that requires them to be operating in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each needs a small bit of sources while your computer is running.
Remember that Bc maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that includes info about whether the questioned item is required, elective, or not needed, if you are unsure about what can be safely removed.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols in your Desktop also take a modest number of trunk time to set themselves.
Absence of Care
Step 5. Delete unused applications and move old files into a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have previously 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 advanced level users: some specialists would contain the added maintenance stage of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you will find plenty of programs to help do this. For the most part, so this step isn’t contained, you may do severe harm by creating registry modifications, registry maintenance will not make a vital difference, and unless you’re really comfy with Windows, and carefully make backups of-the registry
Stage 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it fix Dial Up Networking Windows.
Step 7. Defragment your computer. Windows tends to put new files in any available open space; defragging will set related segments of files closer together therefore your read arm has less going around the hdd to do, saving wear and tear while racing up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have ended, you’ll see a noticeable enhancement in pc operation.