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HOW TO FIX A SLOW COMPUTER IN LESS THAN 15 MINUTES

October 27, 2009

Optimising the performance of any computer is easier than many users think. This article provides simple steps to speed up any computer quickly. PC or Mac users should be able to implement either of the first two steps in this article in less than 15 minutes.

 

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The registry is similar to the nervous system of the computer and its function is to connect software hardware and computer files. Over time, errors occur and this slows down computers, frequently their registry become corrupted. A simple step is to locate then repair the errors in the registry. 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. Using a registry cleaner software is a faster, more reliable option to eliminate errors, redundant files, incorrect links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on fix computer registry 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. Often, this takes place when peer to peer (P2P) networks are used to download videos and music for example. One of the simplest solutions to improve any computer’s speed is to use an anti spyware or adware software to scan, remove and block these unwanted threats. In order to try out the right anti spyware or adware program, it is preferable to use a trial version which is usually free. Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software are the main features to consider. 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. The problem with many viruses is not only the damage they cause to computer files but also the amount of resources which they use and waste, for example RAM and disk space. Running the latest version of some of the leading anti-virus software should overcome these problems and users who do so will be in a stronger position to improve the performance of their computer.

 

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.  Another tip is to stop programs launching automatically, as this will also improve the speed of the computer. Marginal improvements usually result 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 frees up space for the computer to swap files, which is used particularly when the operating system starts using virtual memory once it has run 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. Defragmenting the hard disk is another action, which will improve the response time of any computer. 

 

Step 6 – Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This reduces the amount of memory available for other programs. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. An alternative free option is simply to not run some computer programs at the same time as each other.

 

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. Installing a new fan is the best solution to overcome this problem, as this increases the air flow through the computer thereby reducing the machine’s temperature and improving its performance.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster.

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