Malware
Possibly the most important factor to a badly performing computer is malware. Usually this is associated with downloading an application that includes spyware, by not having browser security options high enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by declining to install security patches in a timely manner.
Action 1. Update the definitions of your antivirus and operate a complete scan of your hard disk in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Note that some viruses require additional steps before they may be removed; normally a websearch will locate specific directions or a particular removal tool. If you can’t find a solution, use the BC forums to request support.
2. You have recently downloaded an application, and if the sluggishness is unexpected, the problem may dwell there. Test this by completely eliminating it. A sensible user will typically perform a internet search about the application before downloading it because in most cases, any possible difficulty with malware or poor performance will have appeared.
Step 3. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your computer’s operation, and these are throughout the Web.
Update the definitions of your antispyware programs and scan your hard drives in Safe Mode. Experienced customers will routinely operate several of the programs, because each business has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will simply search against their own established. (A listing of very great, free anti-spyware applications is provided by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before continuing to the next step.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review programs that self-launch on startup. You computer may be a arena for your consideration. Many programs, for instance, install a rapid-start feature which enables them to be exposed immediately; other programs may include an automated update feature that requires them to be running in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each requires a little bit of resources while your computer is running.
The simplest method to review and than to handle startups would be to work with one of the numerous little utilities available (see the BC list of free programs). If, for example, you have Spybot Search and Destroy, you can use its startup tool that lists startups and enables you to turn off any you do not need. If you are unsure about what can be safely removed, remember that Bc maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that contains info about whether the item is needed, optional, or not needed.
At-the same time, remember that all those icons on your own Background also take a modest amount of boot time to place themselves.
Lack of Upkeep
Step 5. Delete unused applications and move old files to your CD. Unplayed games, lots of family images, zipped files which you have already opened, applications you haven’t used in two years, software for the old printer you put away last year—these are a few examples of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Cleanup to remove temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for higher level users: some professionals would include the additional care stage of cleaning the Windows registry, and there are plenty of applications to help do this. For the most part, so this step isn’t contained, you may do serious harm by making registry changes, registry care will not make a significant difference, and unless you are quite comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of-the registry
Step 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it fix 0xc0000098 On Vista.
Action 7. Defragment your pc. Windows will set new documents in any available open space; defragging will place associated segments of files closer together therefore your read arm has less travelling around the hdd to do, saving wear-and tear while boosting up plans.
Hopefully, now that you have have ended, you’ll find a noticeable improvement in computer functionality.