Things that slow your PC down

2 days ago by Maryanne Lee Its one thing to boot up a computer brand new from the store, and to revel in the galactic superspeed in which it loads. Its another to keep it running at that same speed, especially after some months have passed. There are many reasons why your computer isnt running at its optimum. ortunately, theyre all very easy to solve. !ead on to find out what slows your "# down, and what you can do about it. An overloaded startup Most applications you install usually add themselves automatically to your $tart %p folder. This results in a slower startup because of the time needed to load them all. If your computer used to boot at the speed of light, but now moves slower than an old lady at the &ebra crossing, this might be your problem. $'L() T*I$+ by accessing the M$#', I- command through your search bar or run application, heading to the $tartup tab at the top, and unchecking all unnecessary programmes. $eriously, do you really need iTunes to boot whenever you start your computer. Too many temporary files /henever you look at webpages, watch videos, look at photos or even type on Microsoft /ord, your computer stores temporary files so that it can load up faster the ne0t time round. These files build up over time and may slow your computer down, especially since theyre usually located in your '$ drive. $'L() T*I$+ 1y running /indows 2isk #leanup, found in 3ccessories, regularly. A fragmented disk 3 very old school problem, but still a very real one. 2isk fragmentation occurs when the file system cant or wont allocate enough continuous space to store a complete file. This results in gaps within that file, and can make that file run slower than it usually would. $ometimes, those gaps occur when the '$ deletes a file it doesnt need any more. 4This is safe though, your '$ is smarter than you think5. $'L() T*I$+ 1y running the 2isk 2efragmenter, also found in 3ccessories, regularly. /e suggest not using the computer whilst the 2efragmenter runs so as to minimise more fragmentation Programs uninstalled improperly /hat a mouthful this header is. 3 "# does not work like a M3# 6 simply deleting the

application you dont want wont cut it, and leaves behind remaining files that may cause your computer to slow down. $'L() T*I$+ 1y always uninstalling programs with the proper uninstall.e0e, or remove them via the #ontrol "anel. -o one step further to delete leftover files from the folder manually after uninstallation. This could include save games, 7rd party add ons, screenshots and etc. A full OS disk Many people make the mistake of saving everything possible into their #+8 drive, and that usually hosts their '$, or operating system. 'nce that drive gets too full, it slows down, thereby slowing down your entire computers processing speed. $'L() T*I$+ by partitioning your drive into #+8 and 2+8 and saving your data in 2+8. The lack of strain on your '$ drive will let it run faster. 9ou might be pleasantly ama&ed at the difference this can make. Background anti-viruses 3nti:viruses are always helpful, but can sometimes do more harm than good. $ince theyre always running and usually boot together with your computer, they can slow down processes considerably. $trangely enough, its always the ones youve got to pay for that wreak the most havoc. $'L() T*I$+ 1y disabling auto scans and updates, or by switching to a more lightweight, freeware anti:virus. $ome have suggested 3vira and 3(- 3ntivirus, but its your ;ob to ask your trusted geek friend what hes using. Spyware and viruses Malicious software often heads straight for your /indows !egistry or core file system, slowing down your computer. They can sneak in with applications you download online and install, and can also hop in from less:than:savoury websites you visit. $'L() T*I$+ /hile spyware and viruses can be removed manually by deleting them from your registry, some can be more persistent. In this case, use an automatic spyware remover 6 tons are available if you do a -oogle search. 'ne of the more popular one is 3d:3ware $pyware !emover.