How to fix a slow computer in less than 15 minutes?
- Sunday, May 31, 2009, 2:01
- Threat Research
This article describes simple steps that anyone can follow to rapidly speed up their computer. Step 1 or Step 2 in this article can generally be implemented within 15 minutes with a PC or a Mac.
Step 1 - Clean the computer registry
Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The main functions of a registry are about connecting hardware, software and computer files. In practice therefore, the computer registry acts as the computer’s nervous system. Typically the computer registry becomes more prone to errors over time, is frequently corrupted, and this slows down the computer. Locating then fixing errors in the registry is therefore frequently required. Users can in theory attempt a manual cleanup of the registry, however this is not recommended due to the high likelihood of further errors occuring. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on compare registry fix software for more information.
Step 2 – Delete and block adware and spyware
Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. This happens particularly often, when peer to peer networks are being used to download music and videos for example. A simple solution to make any computer faster is to run an anti spyware or adware program to scan, remove then block these unwanted malware. Before buying any anti spyware or adware software it is best to use the trial version which is often free. The main features to consider are Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and the overall effectiveness of the software. The best software tend to be the simplest to use and rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.
Step 3 – Eliminate viruses
Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Computer viruses often damage files, can consume excessive amount of memory and take a large amount of space on the hard disk. Running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs will fix many of the problems which are detrimental to computer performance.
Step 4 – Simple housekeeping tasks
There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed. Alternatively, stopping programs to launch automatically can also improve the performance of any computer. Small improvements can be expected from these simple tasks.
Step 5 – Optimise the Hard disk
For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. Computer speed also depend on the free space on the hard disk, as temporary files are placed there by computer software. This also enables the operating system to swap files using the hard disk as it runs out of RAM. In that event, users can experience a reduction in speed, if too little space is available on the hard disk. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows , can also help check for errors on the hard disk itself. For instance whilst some hard disks may be large enough, they may be too fragmented with some sectors being unusable. Using a defragmentation program will also improve any computer’s speed.
Step 6 – Optimising the RAM
Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. Other programs have less memory to run as a result. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. Another free option is to avoid using some computer programs simultaneously.
Step 7 – Stop the computer from overheating
Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. The best solution is often to replace the fan, this overcomes the problem by increasing the air flow through the computer thereby reducing its temperature and ultimately improving reponse times.
For more information click on how make my computer faster
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