I am posting a summary checklist of basic things you can do to solve this issue, and briefly discussing the three most frequent causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of maintenance, because several readers reveal their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Perhaps the greatest factor to a badly performing computer is malware.
Step 1. Update the explanations of your anti-virus and operate a complete scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Note that some infections require extra steps before they could be removed; generally a internet search will find specific directions or a special removal tool. Use the BC forums to obtain support, if you fail to find a answer.
2. You have recently downloaded an application, and if the sluggishness is unexpected, the problem may rest there. Test this by completely eliminating it. A user will normally perform a websearch about the application before installing because in most cases, any potential issue with malware or poor performance will have surfaced.
Action 3. Adware and Spyware can drastically impact your computer’s performance, and these are all over the World wide web. A very recent research showed that one out of every 20 executable files on Web sites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains feature at least one bit of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Seasoned users will consistently operate two or three of these applications, because each business has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own established. (A listing of very good, free antispyware applications is given by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before proceeding to the next phase.
For further reading about Malicious software and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have quite good Help documents that explain how they operate too as the unique features of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Review applications that self-launch on startup. You computer may become a battleground for your interest. Many programs, for instance, install a fast-start feature which allows them to be opened rapidly; other programs will comprise an automated update feature that demands them to be running in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each requires a small bit of sources while your computer is running.
The simplest way to review and than to handle startups would be to use one of the many small utilities available (see the Bc list of free applications). Remember that Bc maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that contains info about whether the questioned item is needed, elective, or not needed, if you’re uncertain about what could be safely removed.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols on your Background also take a small amount 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 images, zipped files that you have previously opened, applications you haven’t 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 Cleanup to delete temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for high level users: some professionals would contain the additional upkeep stage of cleaning the Windows registry, and you will find several applications to help do this. For the most part, so this step isn’t included, you may do significant harm by making registry changes, registry maintenance won’t make a vital difference, and unless you’re very comfortable with Windows, and cautiously make copies of-the registry
Step 6. Have it repair What Is Runtime Error.
Stage 7. Defragment your computer.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you will see a marked improvement in computer operation.