I’m submitting a summary listing of general steps you can take to solve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most frequent causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and insufficient care, because several readers write about their computer reacting slowly.
Malware
Perhaps the most important contributor to a badly performing computer is malware.
Step 1. Update the definitions of your anti virus and run a full scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Solve any unfixable issues. Notice that some viruses require extra measures before they can be removed; typically a web search will locate specific instructions or a particular removal tool. Use the Bc forums to obtain assistance, if you can’t find a solution.
Step 2. If the sluggishness is abrupt, and you have recently saved an application, the problem might live there. Check this by fully eliminating it. A sensible user will usually perform a internet search about the application before downloading it because in most instances, any potential issue with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Action 3. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your personal computer’s performance, and these are around the Net. A very recent research indicated that one out of every 20 executable files on Web sites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains feature at least one bit of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Experienced customers will routinely operate several of the applications, because each business has its own requirements for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own established. (A record of quite great, free anti-spyware programs is supplied by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before proceeding to the next step.
For additional reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have very great Help files that clarify how they function as well as the distinctive attributes of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Evaluation programs that self-launch on startup. You computer may be a arena for your attention. Many programs, for instance, install a rapid-start feature which enables them to be exposed immediately; other programs will include an automated update feature that demands them to be working in the background. Each of these decreases your launching Windows and each requires a little bit of assets while your personal computer is running.
If, for instance, you have Spybot Search and Destroy, you may use its startup tool that lists startups and allows you to show off any you do not want. If you’re unsure about what may be safely deleted, remember that BC maintains a very complete Startup Database that includes information about whether the item is needed, optional, or unnecessary.
At-the same time, remember that all those symbols in your Background also take a modest amount of trunk time to put themselves.
Lack of Maintenance
Stage 5. Delete unused programs and exchange old files into a CD. Unplayed games, lots of family pictures, zipped files which you have already opened, applications you haven’t found in two years, software for that old printer you put away last year—these are some examples of files you can delete. Then use Window’s Disk Cleanup to delete temporary internet files, temporary PC health files, etc.
(Note for sophisticated users: some experts would include the added upkeep step of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you will find plenty of apps to assist do this. For the most part, registry maintenance won’t make a significant difference, and unless you’re very comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of-the registry, you can do severe harm by creating registry modifications, so this measure is not included
Action 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it fix Registration Errors.
Step 7. Defragment your pc. Windows tends to put 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 hard drive to do, saving wear-and tear while speeding up plans.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in computer functionality.