You turn on your computer to get some work done or to browse through your favorite sites as a way to relax. But it’s taking forever to start up, and then when you click on a program, it takes another 100 years to open. A slow computer can hinder your productivity. And regardless of what you’re using your PC for, it can make you frustrated, which isn’t very relaxing.
Before you throw out your device though, there are things you can do to make it run faster and smoother. Read on for seven common causes of a slow PC and how you can fix them.
1. You Have Too Many Startup Programs
Startup programs are exactly what they sound like: these pieces of software are up and running when your computer is.
Most PCs come preinstalled with startup programs already. And when you install new software, there’s usually a checkbox for “start upon booting” that users miss. These two things coupled together mean your device is working hard to load up everything when you hit that power button.
To fix this, just revoke the startup permissions for most programs. You can do this through the Task Manager (PC), Login Items (Mac), or Applications (Mac).
Generally speaking, the only things that need to run from startup are your antivirus and firewall software. Everything else can be opened as needed.
2. You Haven’t Rebooted In A While
This sounds like an overly simple issue, but we promise that what you see is what you get.
Essentially, the longer your computer’s been on, the more background processes run. As a result, the memory cache gets full, which makes your PC sluggish.
If your device is slow, then try rebooting right away. You might find that it’s immediately quicker, as the reboot will flush the cache.
As a general rule of thumb, restart your computer once every few days to keep it running smoothly. Improving your PC performance will increase its speed too.
3. You’re Overworking Your PC
Computers are powerful pieces of technology that can handle several tasks simultaneously without issue. This is perfect since you like to multitask.
However, there’s such a thing as too much, even for the most modern and top-notch PC. The next time your computer’s slow, take a look at how many browser tabs you have open and how many programs you’re running. Chances are, it’s a lot.
You can quickly remedy this by closing out unnecessary browser tabs (bookmark ones you want to come back to). Then, check which programs are using the most resources. Shut those down, and any other programs you don’t currently need.
You should also check your browser add-ons. Reevaluate which ones are important to you, then ditch the rest.
4. Your Hard Drive Is Full
Your computer can only store so many files. When the hard drive’s almost full, it can significantly slow down your PC.
Don’t worry though; sometimes, emptying the Recycle Bin is all it takes for your computer to be as good as new again. Otherwise, you’ll have to deep clean it.
To take things a step further, you can download a program like CCleaner. It’ll delete unnecessary files, so your hard drive won’t fill up as quickly.
5. Your Hard Drive’s Failing
Unfortunately, hard drives have a limited lifespan. It’s not uncommon to see them fail after two or three years, especially if you’re always on your computer. Also, if you’ve accidentally dropped, tipped over, or even thrown your PC, then that’ll cause the hard drive to fail faster.
To get around this issue, go to your computer’s Properties, then Tools, and Check Now. After pressing “Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors”, you’ll save your PC. For Macs, click on Applications, Utilities, then Disk Utility and First Aid.
To avoid your hard drive failing, or to replace it, switch to a solid-state drive (SSD). They have a longer lifespan of around a decade.
6. Your Software’s Outdated
Are you guilty of clicking “later” whenever you get update popups? Then this is probably why you have PC problems.
Computer drivers are constantly updated. If you don’t get the latest versions, then it’ll be difficult for your PC to communicate with hardware devices.
So take a few minutes to download the latest drivers. You’ll see a world of difference when you do!
7. Your PC Has A Virus
This is one of the worst computer problems to have. Not only does it slow down your PC, but it also puts your sensitive information at risk!
Run your antivirus program to see if it detects anything. If not, then try another program to see if you get the same results. Make sure you run both a virus and malware scan.
If the checks detect anything harmful, then remove it or quarantine it if that’s not possible.
In the future, be sure to run regular checks. Be vigilant about the things you click on and download too.
Say Goodbye To A Slow PC
A slow PC can be frustrating, especially if you have deadlines to meet. It can also be worrying, as it’s often a sign that your computer is breaking down.
However, we’ve discussed various common issues in addition to their solutions. Some of them are quite simple and innocent, such as closing out unnecessary programs and updating your driver. Therefore you may want to investigate further, and you’ll find that it’s not that difficult to get your PC up and running like new again!
Do you want to learn more about tech solutions? Then check out the rest of our blog page now.
