Malware
Perhaps the most important contributor 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 in a timely manner.
Action 1. Revise the explanations of your anti-virus and run a complete scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Solve any unfixable issues. Note that some infections require extra steps until they could be removed; normally a web search will locate specific instructions or a particular removal tool. If you cannot find a solution, use the Bc forums to request support.
Step 2. You have recently downloaded an application, and if the slowness is unexpected, the issue might reside there. Check this by fully eliminating it. A user will typically perform a web search about the application before getting because in most instances, any potential difficulty with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Step three. Adware and Spyware can dramatically effect your personal computer’s operation, and these are around 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 piece of spyware waiting for victims.
Experienced users will often operate several of the programs, because each company has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A record of quite good, free antispyware programs is supplied by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before continuing to the next phase.
For additional reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have very good Help files that explain how they operate also as the unique characteristics of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review apps that self-start on startup. You computer may become a arena for your interest. Many programs, for instance, install a quick-start feature that permits them to be opened quickly; other programs may contain an automatic update feature that requires them to be working in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each needs a small bit of sources while your personal computer is running.
You can use its startup tool that lists startups and enables you to turn off any you don’t need, if, for instance, you have Spybot Search and Destroy. Remember that Bc maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that includes info about whether the inquired item is needed, discretionary, or unnecessary, if you’re uncertain about what can be safely removed.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols in your Background also take a modest amount of boot time to place themselves.
Lack of Upkeep
Step 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Stage 7). Delete unused applications and move old files into a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have previously opened, applications you have not found in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are a few types of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Clean-up to remove temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for high level users: some experts would contain the added care step of cleaning the Windows registry, and you’ll find plenty of applications to help do this. For the most part, so this step isn’t contained, you may do severe damage by making registry changes, registry care will not make a major difference, and unless you are really comfy with Windows, and carefully make copies of the registry
Stage 6. Have it repair Delete History Windows.
Step 7. Defragment your computer. Windows will set new documents in any available open space; defragging will place associated sections of files closer together so your read arm has less travelling around the hard drive to do, saving wear and tear while speeding up programs.
Hopefully, now that you have have finished, you’ll find a marked improvement in pc functionality.