I am posting a summary checklist of general steps you can take to resolve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of maintenance, because many readers write about their computer responding slowly.
Malware
Possibly the greatest factor to a poorly performing computer is malware.
Action 1. Update the definitions of your antivirus and run a full scan of your hard drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Notice that some infections require additional measures until they could be removed; typically a web search will locate specific directions or a special removal tool. Use the BC forums to request assistance, if you fail to find a solution.
Step 2. You have recently downloaded an application, and if the sluggishness is abrupt, the problem might dwell there. Test this by entirely removing it. A wise user will normally perform a web search about the application before downloading it because in most cases, any possible issue with malware or poor performance will have surfaced.
Stage three. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your computer’s operation, and these are around the Internet. A very recent research showed that one out of every 20 executable files on Web sites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains include at least one bit of spyware waiting for victims.
Revise the explanations of your anti spyware applications and scan your hard drives in Safe Mode. Seasoned customers will routinely operate several of these programs, because each company has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own established. (A listing of very good, free anti spyware programs is provided by BC). Again, solve any open issues before continuing to the next step.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Evaluation programs that self-launch on startup. You pc can be a arena for your attention. Many programs, for example, install a fast-start feature which permits them to be exposed promptly; other programs may include an automated update feature that requires them to be running in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each needs a small bit of resources while your personal computer is running.
The easiest approach to review and than to handle start ups is to work with one of the numerous little resources available (see the BC list of free applications). Remember that Bc maintains a quite complete Startup Database that contains info about whether the questioned item is needed, optional, or unnecessary, in case you are uncertain about what can be safely removed.
At the same time, remember that those icons in your Background also take a small amount of trunk time to put themselves.
Absence of Care
Stage 5. Clean-up your hard drive (preparation for Action 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 haven’t used in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are a few types of files you can delete.
(Note for higher level users: some professionals would comprise the added upkeep stage of cleaning up the Windows registry, and you will find several applications to assist do this. For the most part, so this step is not contained, you may do serious damage by creating registry changes, registry maintenance will not make a critical difference, and unless you’re really comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of the registry
Action 6. Have it fix Regsupreme Windows 7.
Step 7. Defragment your computer. Windows tends to put new files in any available open space; defragging will set affiliated sections of files closer together therefore your read arm has less going around the hard drive to do, saving wear-and tear while speeding up applications.
Hopefully, now that you have have ended, you’ll find a noticeable improvement in pc functionality.