Optimising the performance of any computer is easier than many users think. This article provides simple steps to speed up any computer quickly. Implementing step 1 or step 2 should take no more than 15 minutes and will work for both PCs and Macs.

 

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The registry is comparable to a nervous system. Its main function is to connect software hardware and computer files. Over time, errors occur and this slows down computers, frequently their registry become corrupted. A simple step is therefore to locate then fix registry errors. Cleaning the registry manually is possible but not recommended, as this method requires specific knowledge of the registry structure and its functions. Using a registry cleaner software is a faster, more reliable option to eliminate errors, redundant files, incorrect links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on fix computer registry for more information.

 

Step 2 – Delete and block adware and spyware

Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. An easy solution to improve the response time of any computer is to run an anti spyware or adware program which will scan, remove then block adware and spyware. In order to try out the right anti spyware or adware program, it is preferable to use a trial version which is usually free. The overall effectiveness of the software is obviously the main feature to consider, however other features are also important such as Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service. The best software tend to be the simplest to use and rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.

 

Step 3 – Eliminate viruses

Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Computer viruses must be deleted for two reasons, firstly they often damage files, secondly they tend to waste memory and disk space. Running the latest version of some of the leading anti-virus software should overcome these problems and users who do so will be in a stronger position to improve the performance of their computer.

 

Step 4 – Simple housekeeping tasks

There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed.  Alternatively, stopping programs to launch automatically can also improve the performance of any computer. These simple steps usually produce small improvements.

Step 5 – Optimise the Hard disk

For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. This free space is an important contributor of your computer speed as it is used by temporary files placed there by computer programs. This free space also enables your computer to swap files as the computers starts using virtual memory (when it runs out of RAM). Unless sufficient space on the hard disk is availble, the system slows down significantly in that event. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows can help check for errors on the hard disk. For instance whilst some hard disks may be large enough, they may be too fragmented with some sectors being unusable. Running a defragmentation program is another step that can be completed to improve  the speed of any computer. 

 

Step 6 – Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This reduces the amount of memory available for other programs. Running out of RAM too fast is not uncommon and users who have this problem should consider upgrading the memory on their computer. Another free option is to avoid using some computer programs simultaneously.

 

Step 7 – Stop the computer from overheating

Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. Installing a new fan is the best solution to overcome this problem, as this increases the air flow through the computer thereby reducing the machine’s temperature and improving its performance.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster