How to Fix a Slow Computer

Posted on December 31st, 2008 by Paul

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Working with a slow computer is a nightmare. You have to deal with the snail-paced processing of functions and lengthy download times, which slow down internet browsing even further. Ideally, a computer should execute your every command in the span of a few seconds, or even less. If it slows down, your computer becomes a liability, especially when your job is dependent on it. Good thing there are many ways to speed up a slow computer.

Causes for a Computer Slowdown

A computer’s slowdown has many causes, some of which are totally independent from the others. You must do some sleuthing to properly determine why your computer is not performing at par with other computers. Here’s a peek on the probable causes:

Weak Processor
Lack of Free Memory Space
Viruses and Malware
Bad Sectors
Full Internet Cache
Programs Not Responding

Each cause has a distinct solution. You can implement or install some of the remedies to prevent a future slowdown, once you are able to fix the problem.

Cause #1: Weak Processor

Old computers, given their weaker processors, may not perform as well as the latest models, but you can certainly raise their speeds up to a workable level. The solution comes in the form of added random access memory (RAM). The addition of RAM will speed up your computer significantly. You can do multiple tasks simultaneously with little effect on the speed, if you install enough memory on your computer.

You can purchase RAM from all computer stores . They are a bit expensive, but they are good investments if you don’t plan to buy a new computer anytime soon. RAM must be physically installed inside the CPU. You can hire a computer tech to do the installation if you are not adept at handling computer parts.

Cause #2: Lack of Free Memory Space

A hard disk that is nearly full affects the speed of your computer. The processor, needing a fraction of free memory to perform properly, is overwhelmed, since it only has limited space to work with. You can increase the memory of your computer by purchasing another hard disk, preferably an external one. Hook up the new hard drive onto your computer then transfer some of the files contained by the older one, freeing up more space in the process. You will then notice a sudden boost of speed, from your computer, right after the transfer.

Cause #3: Viruses and Malware

The internet is filled with malicious programs lurking in many websites, including your email. When these virtual pests enter your computer, they won’t only slow down your computer, your hard drive will also be corrupted. You must protect your computer from viruses and malware at all costs. Better install reputable anti-virus and anti-spyware programs then update them frequently.

You can purchase both programs in a software store. They may be pricey, but as good as permanent once installed. Add-ons and upgrades are available online for free. You can also download security programs on the internet for free, but you won’t get all of the features. Some of them even masquerade as anti-virus or anti-spyware programs, when in fact, they are malware built to infest your PC. So to be sure your computer is safe, you should purchase your security programs rather than download them.

Cause #4: Bad Sectors

Sometimes the files contained by the hard drive gets mixed up or fragmented after continuous use, which creates bad sectors in the memory. Accessing the programs in the messed up sectors will take longer to respond. So if an integral part of your computer system is clustered with a bad sector, expect your computer to respond at an agonizingly slow pace.

Resolve this problem by “defragging” your computer. By using your computer’s defragmentation feature, the misplaced files and bad memory sectors are fixed. In addition, the process maximizes the capacity of your computer, increasing the speed exponentially. You can get to the disk defragmenter by folowing this procedure:

Click Start
Select “All Programs”
Select “Accessories”
Select “System Tools”
Click on Disk Defragmenter.
With the application open, choose a drive to defrag then click “Analyze.”

The entire process will take awhile to finish, but your computer will be much faster right after..

Cause #5: Filled Internet Cache

An internet cache filled with temporary internet files will cause your browsing, or sometimes your computer to slow down. The filled cache may overwork your browser and, depending on your browser settings, those files can occupy a fairly large space on your computer’s memory. You can remove these unnecessary files by following this procedure:

On your browser window, click tools.
For Firefox Users, click on Clear Private Data. Explorer users should click Internet Options. A small will then appear.
Firefox users should mark all the items, except for saved passwords, if you don’t want to retype your password when entering sites that require you to login. Hit on Clear Private Data Now right after. Explorer Users should click on Clear Cookies, Clear Files, then Clear History.
Click OK, regardless of the browser that you’re using.

After optimizing your web browser, if you still feel that your internet is slow,. Try to run an anti-spyware program. If that does not work, you can then call the technical support of your internet service provider.

Cause #6: Program Not Responding

A program that is not responding properly to your commands slows down your computer, since the processor continually tries to execute its task on the idle application. To resolve this concern, click on the CTRL, ALT and Delete keys simultaneously, which brings up a small screen. Click on Task manager, click the Applications tab, highlight the program marked as “Not Responding,” then hit on End Task. The moment the program is closed, your computer’s speed will be back to normal.

Tech Support as your Last Resort

If your computer is still slow after doing all six measures, your best bet is to call the tech support people of your computer. Computer companies usually have toll free numbers, so you need not worry,.