Malware
Perhaps the most important contributor to a poorly performing computer is malware.
Stage 1. Revise the definitions of your anti-virus and run a full scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Notice that some viruses require additional steps until they can be removed; generally a web search will find specific directions or a particular removal tool. If you can’t find a solution, use the Bc forums to request help.
2. If the slowness is unanticipated, and you have recently downloaded an application, the problem might reside there. Test this by entirely removing it. A smart user will generally perform a websearch about the program before getting because in most instances, any potential problem with malware or poor performance will have appeared.
Step three. Adware and Spyware can drastically effect your personal computer’s performance, and these are throughout the Net. A very recent study showed that one out-of every 20 executable files on Web sites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains contain at least one piece of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Update the explanations of your anti-spyware programs and check your hard drives in Safe Mode. Seasoned users will often operate two or three of these programs, because each business has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will only search against their own set. (A listing of really good, free antispyware programs is given by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next phase.
For additional reading about Malicious software and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the applications have quite good Help documents that explain how they operate too as the distinctive attributes of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Evaluation applications that self-launching on startup. You pc may be a arena for your attention. Many programs, for example, install a rapid-start feature which allows them to be opened instantly; other programs may contain an automated update feature that demands them to be working in the background. Each of these slows down your launch Windows and each requires a little bit of sources while your computer is running.
The easiest approach to examine and than to handle start ups will be to-use one of the numerous little resources 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 want. If you’re uncertain about what may be safely deleted, remember that BC maintains a very complete Startup Database that includes information about whether the questioned item is needed, elective, or unnecessary.
At the same time, remember that all those symbols in your Background also take a modest number of trunk time to set themselves.
Absence of Upkeep
Step 5. Delete unused applications and move old files to your CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files which you have previously opened, applications you haven’t used 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 higher level users: some professionals would include the additional care stage of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you will find plenty of apps to help do that. For the most part, so this step isn’t included, you can do severe harm by making registry changes, registry maintenance won’t make a vital difference, and unless you are very comfy with Windows, and carefully make backups of-the registry
Stage 6. Have it mend Sdk Game.
Action 7. Defragment your computer. Windows will set new documents in any available open space; defragging will place affiliated sections of files closer together therefore your read arm has less travelling around the hard drive to do, saving wear and tear while speeding up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you will find a marked improvement in computer operation.