Bring That Slow PC Back To Life

Isn't it great to be working on a brand new computer? Everything is super fast and super responsive. You feel like the efficiency of your work is ten fold. Well the exact opposite can be true after computing on it for even a few months. The registry can get corrupted, unused programs and files clutter the hard drive, temporary internet files start adding up, spyware gets installed under the radar, the list goes on. So many things can add up and before you know it your brand new machine is locking up. A few simple tips can keep that computer flying like new.

A quick an easy one is to delete those temporary internet files, IE users need only click on tools>internet options – and then "delete files" under temporary internet files.

Also uninstall any software that you do not use any more. The best way is through start>settings>control panel and then "add or remove programs"

Another easy one is to keep your hard drive "defragged" A hard drive's data can get fragmented or separated along the drive. "Defragging" will bring your data back in a more orderly fashion allowing the drive to call it up quicker. Click on start>programs>accessories>system tools>disk defragmenter

Before long after many installs, uninstalls, and reinstalls your registry (pretty much the backbone of your operating system) can become corrupt. You should definitely keep this clean. There are many tools out there to do this.

Spyware/adware is another major character to blame for slowness or internet surfing problems. Again a good piece of software to clean these issues up is recommended. This is most likely separate from your normal virus scan software so definitely make sure both are up to date.

Installing more RAM is the cheapest way to bring some life back to an older computer. RAM or Random Access Memory is your computers short term memory. This memory holds your word document or email before it is actually saved to the hard drive or sent to the recipient. Very easy to install, pretty cheap these days, and you will definitely see some performance with that simple upgrade. Email me if you need help.

Well that's just a few tips that I run through when I get the dreaded phone call "My computer keeps locking up and is running very slow!" But that is why I am slowly teaching my family and friends, to hopefully cut down on the support calls! :)(link)