Many users think that when a computer boots up slowly, frequently freezes, and takes a long time to open programs, the system is outdated. However, this isn't necessarily true. Often, a computer's slow performance can be rectified at the software level. This means that to speed up the system, it's not always necessary to install more powerful components. Next, we'll explain how to easily fix a slow computer.
Delete Unnecessary Files, Games, and Programs
A filled storage drive often causes slowdowns and freezes. Delete unnecessary files, games, and programs from your disk.
Files must be deleted manually, but programs can be easily removed using the built-in Windows utility "Add or Remove Programs." Type its name in the search window, and a long list of installed applications will appear. Choose those you don't need and confidently delete them. If you're unsure about an application, simply Google its name. It could be an important system application, which should not be deleted. Remember to restart your computer at the end.
Clean the Registry and Delete Junk Files
Windows creates a lot of temporary and junk files during operation. Also, when installing and uninstalling programs, the operating system records numerous data in the registry, which can clog the system and cause slowdowns and lags.
To optimize the registry and delete junk files, install a program like CCleaner. This free utility allows for easy and quick system cleaning. If you don't like CCleaner, you can download any similar application. There are quite a few available online. Don't forget to restart your PC after cleaning.
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Remove Viruses, Miners, and Other Threats
We often download files from the internet, and malicious programs can inadvertently be installed on our computers. These can be light viruses that transmit user data or heavy miners that significantly load the system. Such malicious programs are one of the most common reasons why PCs operate slowly.
To get rid of viruses and miners, it's not necessary to buy paid antivirus applications like NOD32. You can install free utilities, such as Malwarebytes, Dr.Web CureIt, or HitmanPro. Check your system with these applications every few months to improve your computer's performance.
Reinstall Windows Operating System
This is a last resort and should only be used if all other methods to speed up the computer have failed. The problem is that reinstalling Windows deletes all data on the disk. To save necessary files, transfer them to another disk, USB flash drives, or personal cloud storage.
Reinstalling Windows is a simple and safe procedure, but if you don't want to do it yourself, you can always turn to a computer service center.
What to Do If These Tips Don't Help
If the above recommendations don't help, the problem is likely hardware-related. That is, the reason for the slow operation of the computer is linked to its components, often due to overheating, insufficient RAM, or a worn-out hard drive. Next, we'll explain how to fix these issues.
Clean Your PC from Dust and Replace Thermal Interface
If your computer starts working slowly under load, such as in games or heavy professional programs, it may be overheating and throttling. This often happens with old PCs that have become clogged with dust, and their thermal paste and pads have dried out and hardened.
To get rid of throttling, replace the thermal paste, thermal pads, and conduct a thorough cleaning of the computer from dust. If you've never done this, it's better to contact professionals. Many PC service centers offer these services.
Replace Hard Disk with an SSD
Hard disks (HDDs) wear out over time. They develop bad sectors, and their spindles and read heads respond slower to commands. This significantly reduces the speed of the drives and computers begin to perform poorly.
To speed up the system, replace the hard disk with an SSD. They are much faster and don't wear out over time. If you don't know how to do this, contact any PC service center. The staff will not only change the storage device but also transfer your data.
Add More RAM
If your computer works slowly when running multiple programs or when many browser tabs are open, the system likely lacks sufficient RAM.
In addition to slow operation, the computer may automatically reboot or forcibly close programs. Also, the system may completely freeze if the RAM shortage is very severe.
To stop the computer from slowing down when launching multiple programs, increase the amount of RAM. This is easy to do yourself. You just need to find out what RAM is installed on your PC and buy the same type. It's important to know not only the model but also the operating frequency. Add a couple of sticks in the free slots or replace them with new modules if your motherboard has no free sockets.
Conclusion
If your computer is running slowly, first try to clean and optimize the operating system:
- Delete unnecessary files, games, and programs;
- Clean the registry and delete Windows junk files;
- Check the system for viruses and remove detected threats;
- Reinstall the Windows operating system.
If these methods don't help, try the following:
- Clean the PC and replace the thermal interface;
- Replace the hard disk with a modern SSD drive;
- Increase the amount of RAM by installing new modules.
HYPERPC Computers Performance
The slow operation of our PCs is impossible thanks to the use of powerful and advanced components. For example, we no longer install outdated hard drives in our computers. Instead, we use high-speed SSD drives with NVMe data transfer protocol.
Our meticulous approach to component selection makes our computers fast and stable throughout their lifespan.