Malware
Maybe the most important factor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Usually this is related to downloading a software that contains spyware, by not having browser security settings high 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 complete scan of your hard disk drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable problems. Notice that some infections need extra steps before they may be removed; generally a internet search will locate specific instructions or a particular removal tool. If you fail to find a solution, use the Bc forums to request help.
2. You’ve recently downloaded an application, and if the sluggishness is abrupt, the problem may rest there. Check this by totally eliminating it. A user will usually perform a web search about the application before installing because in most instances, any possible problem with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Step 3. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your computer’s operation, and these are all over the Web. A very recent research showed 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 victims.
Experienced users will regularly operate 2 or 3 of the applications, because each business has its own standards for what constitutes spyware and will just search against their own set. (A list of quite great, free anti spyware programs is given by BC). Again, solve any open issues before proceeding to the next phase.
Uncontrolled Applications
Stage 4. Evaluation applications that self-launching on startup. You computer may be a arena for your consideration. Many programs, for example, install a fast-start feature which allows them to be exposed fast; other programs will contain an automated update feature that requires them to be working in the background. Each of these decreases your launch Windows and each needs a little bit of sources while your computer is running.
The easiest approach to review and than to handle start ups would be to work with one of many small resources available (see the BC list of free apps). Remember that Bc maintains a really complete Startup Database that includes info about whether the questioned item is required, elective, or unnecessary, if you are unsure about what can be safely deleted.
At-the same time, remember that those icons on your Background also take a small amount of boot time to set themselves.
Absence of Maintenance
Stage 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Step 7). Delete unused programs and move old files into a CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files that you have opened, applications you have not found in two years, software for the old printer you threw away last year—these are some examples of files you can delete.
(Note for advanced level users: some specialists would comprise the additional upkeep step of cleaning the Windows registry, and you’ll find several applications to help do that. For the most part, so this step is not contained, you can do serious harm by creating registry changes, registry maintenance will not make a vital difference, and unless you’re very comfortable with Windows, and cautiously make copies of-the registry
Step 6. Have it fix UserBreak.
Step 7. Defragment your personal computer. Windows will put new documents in any available open space; defragging will set related segments of files closer together therefore your read arm has less going around the hard drive to do, saving wear and tear while racing up applications.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you will see a marked enhancement in computer operation.