A computer is a complex electronic device capable of performing various tasks by executing a set of instructions called programs. It is designed to receive, process, store, and output data and information.
Sometimes you might be frustrated when you have urgent work on your computer, and it takes 5 minutes and above before booting.
If your computer is running slowly, there are several suggestions you can try to speed it up. These tips are listed in order, so start with the first one and move on to the next if needed.
Steps To Follow When Having A Slow Computer
Step 1: Ensure Windows and device drivers are up to date
To get the best performance out of your PC, ensure you have the latest version of Windows installed. Check for updates by selecting the Start button, then go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Install any available updates, including optional updates like device drivers. Restart your PC and check if it runs better.
Step 2: Restart your PC and open only the necessary apps
Opening multiple apps, programs, and browser tabs can slow down your PC. Close any unnecessary apps or browser tabs. Restart your PC and open only the apps you need. Some older programs might slow down your PC, so check the software company’s website for updates or run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter.
Step 3: Use ReadyBoost to improve performance
ReadyBoost allows you to use a USB flash drive or memory card to enhance your PC’s performance without adding more RAM. Insert the USB flash drive, open File Explorer, right-click the drive, select Properties, go to the ReadyBoost tab, and select “Use this device.” Windows will determine the amount of space to reserve. Restart your PC and check if it improves performance. Note that ReadyBoost is not compatible with solid-state drives (SSDs).
Step 4: Ensure system-managed page file size
The paging file is an area on your hard disk that Windows uses as memory. To optimize your PC’s performance, enable automatic page file management. Go to Search, type “advanced system,” select “View advanced system settings,” go to the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Performance section, go to the Advanced tab again, select Change in the Virtual memory section, and ensure the “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives” option is selected. Restart your PC.
Step 5: Check for low disk space and free up space
Low disk space can affect your PC’s performance. To check, go to Start > Settings > System > Storage. If space is low, use Storage Sense to delete unnecessary files. Open Settings, go to System > Storage, select “Temporary files,” choose the items to delete, and click “Remove files.” You can also use Disk Cleanup to free up space.
Step 6: Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows
Windows 11 includes visual effects that can use system resources and slow down your PC. Adjust these effects by going to Search, typing “performance,” and selecting “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows.” Choose “Adjust for best performance” on the Visual Effects tab and restart your PC.
Step 7: Pause OneDrive syncing
Syncing files between your PC and OneDrive can slow down your PC. Temporarily pause OneDrive syncing by selecting the OneDrive icon in the taskbar, going to Help & Settings, and choosing how long to pause syncing. Restart your PC and check if the performance improves. Resume syncing when needed.
Step 8: Disable unnecessary startup programs
Some programs start automatically when your PC boots, slowing the startup process. Disable unnecessary startup programs by going to Start > Settings > Apps > Startup. Set the programs you don’t want to start automatically to “Off.”
Step 9: Check for and remove viruses and malware
Viruses and malware can significantly affect your PC’s performance. Run antivirus and antimalware scans using Windows Security (Windows Defender Security Center) or other trusted software. Keep your security software up to date and scan your PC regularly.
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Conclusion
If your computer is running slowly, follow the steps above to improve its performance. By installing the latest updates for Windows and device drivers and more.
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