My computer is running slow what steps can I do to fix it?

Issue

My computer is running slow what steps can I do to fix it?

Cause

This issue can be caused by any of the below possibilities.

1. Not enough hard drive space.
2. Left over programs and bad files.
3. Data Corruption.
4. Missing Windows updates or outdated drivers.
5. Computer is overheating.
6. Corrupt OS.
7. Bad Hardware.

Solution

Tip: This page only cover an overall slow computer and not a computer that has a slow boot up.

Below are steps for Microsoft Windows users that should help speed up the computer or determine why the computer is running slow.

Reboot

If your computer has not been reboot recently make sure to reboot it before following any of the below steps.

Not enough hard drive space

Verify that there is at least 200-500MB of free hard drive space. This available space allows the computer to have room for the swap file to increase in size as well as room for temporary files.

• Determining available hard drive space.
• Regaining computer hard drive space.

Hard drive corrupted or fragmented

• Run ScanDisk or something equivalent to verify there is nothing physically wrong with the computer hard drive.
• Run Defrag to help ensure that data is arranged in the best possible order.

Background programs

Remove or disable any TSRs and startup programs that automatically start each time the computer boots.

Tip: To see what programs are running in the background and how much memory and CPU they are using open Task Manager.  If you are running Windows 7 run Resmon to get a better understanding of how your computer is being used.

If you've got an antivirus scanner on the computer, spyware protection program, or other security utility make sure it's not scanning your computer in the background. Often when these programs begin to scan the computer it can decrease the overall performance of your computer.

Scan for malware

Today, spyware and other malware is a big cause of many computer problems including a slow computer. Even if an antivirus scanner is installed on the computer we recommend running a malware scan on the computer. Use the free version of Malwarebytes to scan your computer for malware.

Hardware conflicts

• Verify that the Device Manager has no conflicts. If any exist resolve these issues as they could be the cause of your problem.

Update Windows

• Make sure you have all the latest Windows updates installed in the computer.
• If you are on the Internet when your computer is slow also make sure all browser plugins are up-to-date.

Update your drivers

Make sure you've got the latest drivers for your computer. Especially the latest video drivers. Having out-of-date drivers can cause an assortment of issues.

Computer or processor is overheating

Make sure your computer and processor is not overheating, excessive heat can cause a significant decrease in computer performance some processors will even lower the speed of the processor automatically to help compensate for the heat related issues.

• What temperature should my processor be running at?

Dust, dirt, and hair can also constrict a proper air flow on your computer, which can also cause a computer to overheat. Make sure your computer case is clean and fans are not obstructed.

• Steps on cleaning your computer.

Memory upgrade

If you've had your computer for more than one year it's likely you're computer is not meeting the memory requirements for today. Today, we suggest at a minimum the computer have 1GB of memory.