I am publishing a summary checklist of general things you can do to resolve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most frequent causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of maintenance, because several readers write about their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Possibly the most important factor to a badly performing computer is malware. Usually this is associated with downloading a software that includes spyware, by not having browser security options large enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by failing to install security areas regularly.
Stage 1. Update the explanations of your anti-virus and operate a full scan of your hard disk in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Note that some infections need extra steps before they can be removed; normally a web search will find specific instructions or a particular removal tool. Use the BC forums to obtain support, if you cannot find a answer.
2. You’ve recently downloaded an application, and if the slowness is abrupt, the issue might dwell there. Test this by completely eliminating it. A smart user will usually perform a internet search about the program before getting because in most cases, any potential issue with malware or inferior performance will have surfaced.
Step three. Adware and Spyware can dramatically effect your personal computer’s performance, and these are all over the Web.
Experienced customers will consistently operate two or three of the programs, because each business has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will simply search against their own established. (A set of quite good, free antispyware programs is given by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before continuing to the next phase.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Evaluation apps that self-launch on startup. You computer can be a battleground for your attention. Many programs, for example, install a quick-launch feature that permits them to be opened instantly; other programs may comprise an automated update feature that requires them to be operating in the background. Each of these slows down your debut Windows and each requires a little bit of resources while your personal computer is running.
The easiest approach to examine and than to manage startups is to utilize one of the numerous little utilities available (see the Bc list of free programs). Remember that BC maintains a quite comprehensive Startup Database that contains info about whether the item is required, discretionary, or unnecessary, in case you are unsure about what may be safely removed.
At the same time, remember that those icons in your Background also take a modest amount of trunk 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, tons of family pictures, zipped files which you have previously opened, applications you have not used in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are a few examples of files you can delete.
(Note for high level users: some specialists would include the additional upkeep step of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you will find plenty of applications to assist try this. For the most part, so this step isn’t contained, you can do serious harm by making registry changes, registry maintenance won’t make a significant difference, and unless you’re quite comfy with Windows, and cautiously make copies of the registry
Step 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it fix Microsoft Error 1710.
Stage 7. Defragment your personal computer.
Hopefully, now that you have have ended, you will find a marked enhancement in computer operation.