I’m publishing a summary listing of general steps you can take to solve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of care, because several readers reveal their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Maybe the greatest factor to a badly performing computer is malware. Generally this is related to downloading an application that contains spyware, by not having browser security options large enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by failing to install security patches in a timely manner.
Stage 1. Revise the definitions of your anti-virus and run a full scan of your hard disk in Safe Mode. Solve any unfixable issues. Notice that some viruses need additional steps until they can be removed; generally a websearch will find specific instructions or a particular removal tool. If you can’t find a answer, use the Bc forums to obtain assistance.
Step Two. You have recently saved an application, and if the slowness is abrupt, the problem might dwell there. Check this by fully eliminating it. A user will usually perform a web search about the application before getting because in most cases, any potential issue with malware or poor performance will have appeared.
Action three. Adware and Spyware can drastically impact your computer’s operation, and these are around the Net.
Experienced customers will routinely run two or three of the programs, because each company has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A set of really good, free anti-spyware programs is supplied by BC). Again, solve any open issues before continuing to the next phase.
For additional reading about Malicious software and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have really great Help files that clarify how they operate too as the unique attributes of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review programs that self-launching on startup. You pc may become a battleground for your consideration. Many programs, for instance, install a fast-launch feature which allows them to be opened rapidly; other programs may comprise an automated update feature that demands them to be working in the background. Each of these decreases your launching Windows and each requires a small bit of assets while your personal computer is running.
The simplest way to examine and than to handle startups will be to work with one of the numerous small utilities available (see the Bc list of free programs). You can use its startup tool that lists startups and enables you to show off any you usually do not need, if, like, you have Spybot Search and Destroy. In case you are uncertain about what may be safely deleted, remember that Bc maintains a very comprehensive Startup Database that includes info about whether the inquired item is needed, elective, or not needed.
At the same time, remember that all those icons on your own Desktop also take a modest amount of boot time to set themselves.
Lack of Upkeep
Step 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Action 7). Delete unused applications and transfer old files to your CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, 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. Then use Window’s Disk Clean-up to remove temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for sophisticated users: some experts would comprise the additional maintenance step of cleaning the Windows registry, and you will find several apps to help do that. For the most part, registry maintenance will not make a vital difference, and unless you are really comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of-the registry, you can do serious harm by making registry changes, so this measure isn’t included
Action 6. Have it fix Defragment Programs.
Step 7. Defragment your computer. Windows will put new files in any available open space; defragging will set related segments of files closer together therefore your read arm has less travelling around the hdd to do, saving wear and tear while racing up plans.
Hopefully, now that you have have concluded, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in computer operation.