I am posting a summary listing of general steps you can take to solve this problem, and briefly discussing the three most common causes : malware, uncontrolled applications, and lack of care, because several readers reveal their computer reacting slowly.
Malware
Possibly the greatest factor to a poorly performing computer is malware. Usually this is associated with downloading a software that includes spyware, by not having browser security settings high enough, by carelessly downloading P2P files, or by declining to install security patches in a timely manner.
Stage 1. Revise the explanations of your antivirus and operate a complete scan of your drive in Safe Mode. Resolve any unfixable issues. Note that some viruses need extra measures until they could be removed; ordinarily a web search will find specific instructions or a special removal tool. If you fail to find a solution, use the BC forums to request assistance.
2. If the sluggishness is abrupt, and you have recently downloaded an application, the issue may live there. Check this by fully removing it. A user will typically perform a websearch about the application before installing because in most instances, any possible trouble with malware or inferior performance will have surfaced.
Stage 3. Adware and Spyware can radically effect your personal computer’s functionality, and these are around the Internet. A very recent research showed that one out of every 20 executable files on Websites is spyware, and 1 in 25 domains comprise at least one piece of spyware waiting for victims.
Seasoned customers will regularly run 2 or 3 of these applications, because each business has its own criteria for what constitutes spyware and will only search against their own set. (A record of quite good, free antispyware applications is given by BC). Again, resolve any open issues before proceeding to the next phase.
For further reading about Malware and some malware removal applications, use BC’s Tutorial section; most of the programs have really great Help documents that describe how they operate also as the distinctive features of each.
Uncontrolled Applications
Step 4. Review apps that self-launching on startup. You pc may be a battleground for your attention. Many programs, for instance, install a fast-launch feature which enables them to be opened swiftly; other programs may include an automated update feature that requires them to be operating in the background. Each of these slows down your launch Windows and each requires a small bit of sources while your personal computer is running.
The easiest way to examine and than to handle start-ups would be to-use one of the many little resources available (see the Bc list of free applications). If you are unsure about what may be safely deleted, remember that BC maintains a quite complete Startup Database that contains information about whether the item is required, elective, or unnecessary.
At-the same time, remember that those symbols on your own Desktop also take a small amount of trunk time to set themselves.
Lack of Care
Stage 5. Delete unused applications and transfer old files to your CD. Unplayed games, lots of family images, zipped files that you have opened, applications you have not found in two years, software for that old printer you threw away last year—these are some examples of files you can delete.
(Note for sophisticated users: some specialists would contain the added maintenance step of cleaning up the Windows registry, and there are plenty of apps to assist try this. For the most part, so this step is not contained, you may do significant damage by making registry modifications, registry care won’t make a critical difference, and unless you are very comfy with Windows, and cautiously make backups of-the registry
Action 6. Run scandisk / checkdisk in Safe Mode. Have it repair Windows Upgrade 98 To Xp.
Step 7. Defragment your personal computer.
Hopefully, since you have have finished, you will find a marked enhancement in computer functionality.