I am submitting a summary listing of general steps you can take to resolve this issue, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient care, because many readers write about their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Maybe the greatest contributor to a poorly performing computer is malware.
Stage 1. Revise 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 viruses need extra measures before they could be removed; typically a web search will find specific instructions or a special removal tool. If you cannot find a solution, use the BC forums to obtain help.
Step Two. If the sluggishness is surprising, and you have recently saved an application, the problem may reside there. Test this by fully eliminating it. A wise user will usually perform a web search about the application before installing because in most instances, any potential problem with malware or poor performance will have surfaced.
Action 3. Adware and Spyware can dramatically impact your computer’s operation, and these are around the Internet. A very recent study showed 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 victims.
Experienced customers will often run 2 or 3 of the applications, because each company has its own requirements for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A list of quite good, free anti spyware applications is supplied by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
For further reading about Malicious software and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the applications have very good Help documents that clarify how they function also as the unique features of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Evaluation applications that self-launching on startup. You computer can be a battleground for your attention. Many programs, for example, install a rapid-start feature which allows them to be opened instantly; other programs may comprise an automated update feature that demands them to be operating in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each requires a little bit of assets while your personal computer is running.
The simplest approach to review and than to handle startups will be to use one of the many small resources available (see the Bc list of free programs). If you’re unsure about what can be safely deleted, remember that Bc maintains a very comprehensive Startup Database that contains info about whether the questioned item is required, discretionary, or not needed.
At the same time, remember that all those icons in your Background also take a modest number of trunk time to place themselves.
Absence of Upkeep
Stage 5. Delete unused applications and exchange old files to a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have opened, applications you have not used in two years, software for the old printer you put away last year—these are a few examples of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Cleanup to remove temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for advanced users: some professionals would include the additional maintenance stage of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you’ll find several apps to help do this. For the most part, so this step isn’t included, you may do severe harm by making registry modifications, registry maintenance won’t make a major difference, and unless you’re quite comfy with Windows, and cautiously make copies of-the registry
Stage 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it repair Monitor Cleaners.
Action 7. Defragment your pc.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you’ll see a marked enhancement in pc functionality.