7 Tips to Speed Up Your PC

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Does it seem that booting up and shutting down your machine takes a lot longer than it used to, and that programs run sluggish or even crash?

Don’t worry – this is completely normal. Most PCs slow down over time with regular use.

If you’re frustrated with your slow computer, give these seven tips a try.

Reduce Startup Programs

1. Turn Off Startup Programs

Did you know that a bunch of programs open every time you turn your computer on? Well, they do, and this could seriously slow down your boot up time.

To disable some of these programs, click on the ‘Start’ button and type ‘msconfig’. This will send you to the System Configuration window. Click the ‘Services’ tab, and uncheck any unfamiliar, suspicious sounding programs. You can also uncheck any trusted software that you just don’t need running all the time, such as iTunes or Adobe Reader. Once you’re done here, head to the ‘Startup’ tab and do the same. You’ll need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Remove unwanted software

2. Remove Unwanted Software

When you purchase a computer, it comes with a ton of software installed that you may never use. Head to ‘Control Panel’, and click the ‘Programs and Features’ page. Look through the list of software, and uninstall what you never use, or will never use in the future. Make sure you don’t uninstall any programs necessary to your computer’s software and hardware needs.

If the list of programs is simply too daunting to deal with, check out the free third-party utility PC Decrapifier.

Clean up your PC files

3. Try Out Third-Party Clean Up Software

On the topic of third-party software, there is a bunch of programs available that claim to clean up your PC, and help it run faster. However, don’t go downloading every program you see. Make sure you read reviews of the software from reputable sources, such as Cnet, PCWorld, or PCMag. You might want to check out the free CCleaner utility. It’s an oldie but a goodie.

Disk clean up

4. Run Disk Cleanup

If you don’t want to download third-party clean up software, try out Window’s built-in tool, Disk Cleanup. This program locates and removes unnecessary files, such as temporary Internet files and program installers. Disk Cleanup could remove a couple of gigs worth of stuff, which could get your slow, sluggish machine working at like-new speeds.

Remove malware

5. Remove Malware

Malware is one of the main culprits of a slow PC. Malware finds its way onto your computer through a dodgy installation, or suspicious email attachment. Malware can be difficult to remove, but it’s not impossible. You’ll need to run anti-virus software, such as Norton 360, Malwarebytes, or Webroot. If this doesn’t work, you may need to call in a professional. Have a look at out how we help our customers with malware removal.

Install RAM

6. Purchase More RAM

If you’re the type of person who works on their computer, edits videos, or plays video games, then more RAM can drastically improve the performance of your machine. RAM is fairly inexpensive, and easy to buy online. Check out RAM City. This site allows you to enter the details of your PC and find RAM that’s guaranteed to be compatible with your PC. You can install RAM yourself with the help of an article like this or you can contact our pc repair technicians on 1300 553 166 and we can do it for you.

Upgrade Hard Drive

7. Install a New Hard Drive

A bigger, faster hard drive will improve the speed of your computer in a similar way as more RAM. As a general rule, if 85% or more of your hard drive is full, you should delete programs and files, or upgrade. Hard drives cost between $75 and $150, and can be installed at home. Hard drive installation can be daunting for the beginner, as you don’t want to lose information or wreck the connections by incorrect installation. Our technicians are ready to help you with this aspect of computer setup, and anything else you may need a hand with.

Alternatively, have a look NAS storage devices, the latest in storage solutions.