Because many readers reveal their computer responding slowly, I am submitting a summary listing of basic steps you can take to solve the Virus And Spywareproblem, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient care.
Malware
Possibly the most important factor to a badly performing computer is malware. Usually this is associated with downloading an application that contains spyware, by not having browser security settings large enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by declining to install security patches in a timely manner.
Stage 1. Revise the definitions of your antivirus and run a complete scan of your drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Note that some viruses require additional steps before they could be removed; usually a websearch will locate specific instructions or a particular removal tool. Use the BC forums to obtain assistance, if you fail to find a answer.
2. You have recently downloaded an application, and if the slowness is surprising, the issue may reside there. Check this by completely removing it. A user will generally perform a web search about the program before installing because in most instances, any possible trouble with malware or poor performance will have surfaced.
Action 3. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your personal computer’s operation, and these are all over the Web.
Seasoned customers will consistently operate several of these programs, because each company has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A list of quite good, free anti spyware programs is supplied by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
For additional reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have quite good Help documents that explain how they operate as well as the distinctive attributes of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review apps that self-start on startup. You computer can be a arena for your interest. Many programs, for example, install a fast-start feature which allows them to be exposed swiftly; other programs may contain an automatic update feature that requires them to be working in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each needs a little bit of sources while your computer is running.
The simplest way to review and than to manage startups is to work with one of the numerous little resources available (see the BC list of free applications). In case you are uncertain about what can be safely removed, remember that BC maintains a really complete Startup Database that includes info about whether the questioned item is required, elective, or unnecessary.
At the same time, remember that all those symbols on your own Background also take a small amount of boot time to set themselves.
Lack of Maintenance
Stage 5. Delete unused applications and transfer old files into a CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files which you have already opened, applications you haven’t used in two years, software for that old printer you threw away last year—these are a few examples of files you can delete.
(Note for advanced level users: some experts would contain the added care step of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you’ll find plenty of apps to help try this. For the most part, so this step is not included, you can do severe damage by making registry modifications, registry care won’t make a major difference, and unless you are very comfortable with Windows, and carefully make backups of the registry
Action 6. Have it mend Virus And Spyware.
Step 7. Defragment your personal computer.
Hopefully, now that you have have concluded, you will see a noticeable improvement in pc operation.