How To Speed Up Slow Windows PC.
Meta description: Is your Windows PC slow? Below are several different ways to speed up your Windows PC without buying a new computer.
You double-click an icon, go get a cup of coffee, and come back to a spinning circle. Have you ever experienced this? No one who has used the Windows operating system hasn’t.
However, before you throw your computer out the window and buy a new computer, there are some ways to speed up a slow PC. Read on to find out.
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: A Diagnostic
Open up Task Manager (you can do this by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and go to the Performance tab. Using this, you can see what’s making your PC run slow.
CPU is constantly maxed out: You have too many programs running.
Memory is constantly maxed out: You have too many programs running or using the memory.
Disk is constantly maxed out: Your SSD/HDD is the problem, particularly if you have an HDD.
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: Easy Fixes
These are all simple solutions you can use within minutes or hours.
1. Restart Your PC Often
It seems obvious, but many forget to restart their PC entirely or shut it off and on again. This gets rid of memory leaks and other glitches that can accumulate over time.
2. Close Tabs and Programs You’re Not Using
Many people have 40+ tabs open because they like to leave everything open, but this can really add up. These open tabs consume memory.
3. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs
Unnecessary programs that start up when you turn on your PC can consume memory.
Go to Task Manager > Startup Apps and disable any unnecessary programs. Do NOT disable your antivirus. This should free up some memory.
4. Update Your PC
Sometimes, updates can fix the performance issues you are having. You can check for updates by going to Settings > Windows Update.
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: Medium Fixes
These fixes can help speed up your PC but may take a little more time.
5. Make Sure You Have Enough Storage
Having a nearly full hard drive can significantly slow down your PC. Check your storage by going to Settings > System > Storage.
Make sure there is some space available on your hard drive. You can delete the temporary files that accumulate over time, delete large files not in use, and uninstall programs not in use. In addition, you can also use the Storage Sense app that comes with Windows.
6. Run a Malware Scan
Malware and adware can slow down your PC as well. It is best to run a malware scan using a trusted computer security suite. You can also use Windows Defender, the preinstalled antivirus software for Windows
Do not use any unknown software claiming to speed up your PC, as some contain malware themselves.
7. Turn Off Background Apps
Some apps that you do not use will still run in the background and consume memory.
Go to Settings > Apps and uninstall any apps you aren’t using. If you’re not sure, you can also go to Privacy and Security > Background Apps and turn it off.
8. Your Browser
Browsers will often consume a lot of memory, so it is best to disable any extensions you aren’t using. In addition, you should clear browser cache every so often.
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: Deep Fixes
These fixes can be time-consuming and may require some technical knowledge.
9. Upgrade HDD to SSD (If Not Already Done)
Many older computers still use traditional hard disk drives (HDD). Mechanical HDDs are much slower than solid-state drives (SSD). Many people choose to upgrade their drives as an alternative to getting a new computer, as an SSD can be purchased for a reasonable price.
10. Add More RAM
If your memory is consistently full, you can add more RAM to your computer. This is only an option if your computer allows for additional memory.
11. Reinstall Windows
If your computer is extremely slow, you can always consider backing up your data and reinstalling Windows. This option is available in Windows settings under reset this PC. Make sure to backup your data before doing this just in case.
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: What Not To Do
There are several things you should refrain from doing when trying to speed up your PC.
Do not download random PC cleaner or speed up apps. Some are perfectly fine, but there are many scams out there that can harm your PC.
Do not delete random system files. If you are unsure what a file is, do not delete it.
Do not ignore PC cooling. Many PCs slow down due to overheating. If your PC is running very hot or is excessively loud, it may need cleaning. If you are unsure what to do, it is best to take it to a professional.
How to Speed Up A Slow PC: Monthly PC Maintenance
These are all simple PC maintenance tasks you can do every month to keep your PC running smoothly.
Restart your PC at least once a week
Check for updates and install them
Empty the cache every now and then
Delete unnecessary programs, files, and apps
How to Speed Up a Slow PC: Final Thoughts
Your PC running slow can be incredibly annoying. However, it is not usually a good enough reason to buy a new PC. In most cases, simply disabling some programs or cleaning up your PC can solve the issue. In addition, adding more storage or memory can also be useful.
Try a few of the tools listed above this weekend. Your future self will thank you!
Your turn: What has been the best thing you’ve done for your slow PC? Let us know in the comments below; it may help someone figure out how to fix their slow PC!
