Malware
Maybe the greatest contributor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Generally this is associated with downloading a software that includes spyware, by not having browser security settings large enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by declining to install security patches regularly.
Step 1. Update the definitions of your anti virus and run a complete scan of your hard disk in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Notice that some viruses need additional steps until they may be removed; generally a websearch will find specific instructions or a particular removal tool. If you fail to find a solution, use the BC forums to request support.
Step Two. If the slowness is unanticipated, and you have recently saved an application, the problem might reside there. Check this by fully removing it. A user will typically perform a websearch about the application before getting because in most instances, any potential issue with malware or inferior performance will have surfaced.
Stage three. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your computer’s performance, and these are all over 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 comprise at least one bit of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Seasoned users will regularly operate several of these applications, because each company has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A listing of quite great, free anti spyware programs is given by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review applications that self-launch on startup. You pc may become a battleground for your interest. Many programs, for instance, install a quick-start feature which allows them to be opened swiftly; other programs will include an automatic update feature that requires them to be operating in the background. Each of these slows down your launching Windows and each needs a small bit of resources while your computer is running.
The easiest way to examine and than to manage start-ups will be to-use one of the numerous small utilities available (see the BC list of free programs). In case you are uncertain about what can be safely removed, remember that BC maintains a very comprehensive Startup Database that contains information about whether the inquired item is needed, optional, or unnecessary.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols on your Desktop also take a modest amount of boot time to put themselves.
Lack of Upkeep
Step 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Step 7). Delete unused programs and move old files to a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family images, zipped files that you have opened, applications you have not used in two years, software for that old printer you threw away last year—these are a few examples 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 specialists would comprise the additional care stage of cleaning up the Windows registry, and there are several apps to help do that. For the most part, registry maintenance will not make a significant difference, and unless you’re very comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of-the registry, you may do serious harm by making registry changes, so this measure is not included
Step 6. Have it mend A Request For A Counter Object.
Stage 7. Defragment your computer. Windows tends to set new files in any available open space; defragging will set affiliated segments of files closer together so your read arm has less going around the hdd to do, saving wear-and tear while racing up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you will see a marked improvement in pc operation.