I’m posting a summary record of general steps you can take to solve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most frequent causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of maintenance, because several readers write about their computer reacting slowly.
Malware
Maybe the most important factor to a badly performing computer is malware.
Step 1. Update the definitions of your anti virus and run a full scan of your drive in Safe Mode. Solve any unfixable problems. Notice that some viruses need extra steps until they may be removed; generally a websearch will find specific instructions or a particular removal tool. Use the BC forums to obtain assistance, if you fail to find a solution.
Step Two. You’ve recently downloaded an application, and if the slowness is abrupt, the issue may rest there. Check this by completely removing it. A smart user will usually perform a websearch about the program before installing because in most cases, any potential difficulty with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Action three. Adware and Spyware can dramatically effect your computer’s functionality, and these are all over the World wide web.
Seasoned users will consistently operate several of the applications, because each company has its own requirements for what constitutes spyware and will simply search against their own established. (A list of very great, free anti-spyware applications is provided by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review apps that self-start on startup. You computer can become a arena for your attention. Many programs, for example, install a fast-launch feature which enables them to be opened quickly; other programs may contain an automatic 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 little bit of sources while your computer is running.
If, for instance, you have Spybot Search and Destroy, you may use its startup tool that lists startups and lets you to show off any you do not need. Remember that Bc maintains a really complete Startup Database that contains info about whether the item is needed, elective, or unnecessary, if you’re uncertain about what can be safely removed.
At the same time, remember that all those symbols on your Desktop also take a small number of trunk time to set themselves.
Lack of Maintenance
Stage 5. Delete unused programs and transfer old files to a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have previously opened, applications you have not used in two years, software for the old printer you put away last year—these are some examples of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Clean-up to remove temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for sophisticated users: some professionals would contain the additional care step of cleaning up the Windows registry, and there are several applications to assist do that. For the most part, so this measure is not contained, you may do significant damage by making registry changes, registry maintenance will not make a major difference, and unless you are very comfy with Windows, and carefully make backups of the registry
Stage 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it repair Repair Tvs.
Step 7. Defragment your computer. Windows tends to set new files in any available open space; defragging will place affiliated sections of files closer together so your read arm has less going around the hdd to do, saving wear and tear while racing up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you will see a noticeable enhancement in computer functionality.