I’m submitting a summary listing of basic 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 come up with their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Possibly the most important factor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Generally this is associated with downloading a software that contains spyware, by not having browser security settings high enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by declining to install security patches regularly.
Step 1. Update the explanations of your antivirus and run a full scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Notice that some infections require additional steps before they could be removed; typically a websearch will find specific instructions or a special removal tool. If you cannot find a solution, use the Bc forums to obtain support.
Step Two. If the slowness is abrupt, and you have recently downloaded an application, the problem may rest there. Check this by fully removing it. A smart user will normally perform a websearch about the application before downloading it because in most instances, any potential difficulty with malware or inferior performance will have surfaced.
Stage three. Adware and Spyware can drastically effect your personal computer’s functionality, and these are around the Net. A very recent research indicated 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.
Experienced users will often run several of these applications, because each company has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A set of very good, free anti-spyware programs is provided by BC). Again, resolve 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 explain how they function as well as the distinctive attributes of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review programs that self-start on startup. You computer may be a battleground for your consideration. Many programs, for example, install a fast-start feature which permits them to be opened immediately; other programs may include an automatic update feature that demands them to be running 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 examine and than to manage start-ups would be to utilize one of the many little resources available (see the Bc list of free programs). In case you are unsure about what can be safely deleted, remember that Bc maintains a very comprehensive Startup Database that includes info about whether the item is needed, optional, or unnecessary.
At the same time, remember that those symbols on your own Background also take a small amount of trunk time to put themselves.
Lack of Upkeep
Step 5. Cleanup your hard drive (preparation for Action 7). Delete unused programs and transfer old files to your CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files which you have opened, applications you haven’t found in two years, software for that old printer you threw away last year—these are some examples of files you can delete.
(Note for higher level users: some specialists would include the added care step of cleaning the Windows registry, and there are plenty of applications to help do that. For the most part, registry care will not make a vital difference, and unless you’re very comfy with Windows, and carefully make copies of-the registry, you can do significant damage by making registry changes, so this step is not contained
Action 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it mend 0x86mssp3fr.
Action 7. Defragment your computer.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you’ll find a marked enhancement in computer functionality.