Malware
Perhaps the most important factor to a poorly performing computer is malware.
Stage 1. Update the explanations of your anti-virus and operate a full scan of your hard drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Note that some infections require additional steps until they can be removed; normally a web search will find specific directions or a special removal tool. Use the BC forums to obtain support, if you fail to find a answer.
Step 2. If the slowness is abrupt, and you’ve recently downloaded an application, the issue may reside there. Test this by totally eliminating it. A user will usually perform a internet search about the application before downloading it because in most instances, any potential trouble with malware or inferior performance will have appeared.
Action three. Adware and Spyware can radically impact your computer’s operation, and these are all over the Internet. A very recent study indicated that one out of every 20 executable files on Websites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains contain at least one piece of spyware waiting for sufferers.
Revise the definitions of your anti-spyware programs and scan your hard drives in Safe Mode. Seasoned users will consistently run 2 or 3 of the programs, because each company has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will only search against their own established. (A set of very good, free antispyware programs is provided by BC). Again, solve any open issues before continuing to the next phase.
For additional reading about Malicious software and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have really good Help documents that describe how they operate also as the unique features of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review applications that self-start on startup. You computer may be a battleground for your consideration. Many programs, for instance, install a rapid-launch feature which allows them to be opened instantly; other programs will comprise an automated update feature that demands them to be working in the background. Your launching Windows are slowed down by each of these and each requires a small bit of resources while your computer is running.
The simplest method to review and than to manage start ups would be to use one of the numerous small resources available (see the BC list of free programs). If, for instance, you have Spybot Search and Destroy, you can use its startup tool that lists startups and lets you to show off any you don’t want. Remember that BC maintains a really comprehensive Startup Database that contains info about whether the item is required, optional, or not needed, if you’re unsure about what can be safely removed.
At-the same time, remember that those symbols on your Desktop also take a small amount of boot time to put themselves.
Absence of Maintenance
Stage 5. Clean up your hard drive (preparation for Action 7). Delete unused applications and move old files to a CD. Unplayed games, tons of family images, zipped files that you have already opened, applications you haven’t found in two years, software for the old printer you put away last year—these are a few types of files you can delete.
(Note for high level users: some experts would comprise the added maintenance step of cleaning the Windows registry, and you’ll find several applications to help do that. For the most part, registry maintenance will not make a significant difference, and unless you are really comfortable with Windows, and carefully make copies of the registry, you may do serious harm by creating registry changes, so this measure is not contained
Step 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it mend Virtual Memory Leak.
Action 7. Defragment your personal computer. Windows will put new files in any available open space; defragging will place related sections of files closer together so your read arm has less travelling around the hdd to do, saving wear and tear while boosting up plans.
Hopefully, since you have have concluded, you will find a noticeable improvement in pc performance.