Make a Slow Computer Fast Again
How To Make a Slow Computer Fast
Over time even the fastest computer starts to slow down. While it is extremely frustrating, there are ways to not only save the computer, but make it fast once again. With just a few easy steps, a slow computer may run just as well as it did when it was new.
Every time programs are installed and uninstalled and files moved around, random bits and pieces are left behind. Registry entries which apply to nothing get in the way of starting new programs and even the computer itself. The more files on a computer, the slower it runs as well. Any such operation affects PC performance over the time.
Determine The Problem
If possible, determine the root cause of the problem. Check the available hard drive space. If there is less than 25% of the space remaining, this is likely the part of the issue. This problem is quickly solved by removing any unnecessary files or placing old and often unused files on an external hard drive used for backup. In addition, clean up temporary Windows files, and empty your browser's cache. This frees up space so the computer has more room available for new temporary files necessary for starting the computer and executing applications.
If the problem only began after new software or a computer update was installed, then the problem is likely connected to the latest changes. Remove the new software or update and restart. Suddenly, the slow issue resolves itself.
If there are multiple causes or no clear cause, there are still simple steps to take for speeding up a slow computer. Steps are for all levels of computer users. Why buy a new computer when it's much cheaper to speed up the current one?
Clean The Computer
The first step is to uninstall any software which is no longer used. The software is simply taking up space and some probably launches during the boot process. Check the installed programs section of the computer and follow the prompts to uninstall each unnecessary program.
The next step is to place old files, typically those which are simply records or rarely used files, on to an external storage device. Store these somewhere safe and remove them from the computer itself. Once again, this frees up valuable space.
Next, perform a disk defrag on the system. Each time a file is moved, fragments may be left behind. The disk defragment procedure places fragments together so the hard drive doesn't have to skip through multiple sectors to open a file or program.
Finally, stop any unnecessary software from running at startup. These settings can be changed through the startup folder in the start menu on the computer, in individual program settings and even in the startup configuration program. Slow startup times are usually caused by programs trying to launch as the system boots.
Norton 360 PC Tuneup To The Rescue
Remembering the steps and performing them regularly doesn't always happen. Instead, a third party application is available to tune up the computer for the user. PC Tuneup is just one of the features of Norton 360, while Norton Utilities is strongly focused on the performance of your PC. The application frees up computer memory to allow applications to start faster. It also helps them continue to run faster.
Norton 360 PC Tuneup analyzes the system to remove all unnecessary files. This greatly improves hard drive performance. The settings can be customized to keep the system running smoothly without any user interference. A regular schedule allows the feature to run without the user needing to remember to go step by step through the slow computer troubleshooting checklist. This software is available standalone in its Norton 360 Standard and Deluxe editions, and as Norton 360 bundles with LifeLock. All editions of Norton 360 come with secured space for online PC backups – up to 500GB.