Is your computer slow? 7 things you can check yourself
Before you buy a new computer: seven simple checks that often make a slow computer fast again, and when it is time to ask for help.
Photo: Samsung Memory / Unsplash
A computer that gets slower over time is one of the most common reasons people call us. The good news: often you do not need a new one. These seven checks take a few minutes and solve the problem surprisingly often.
1. Restart it properly
Many computers are only ever put to sleep. A real restart clears the memory and finishes pending updates. On Windows, choose Restart (not Shut down, which keeps parts of the system in memory); on a Mac, choose Restart from the Apple menu.
2. Free up storage
When the internal drive is almost full, everything slows down. Keep at least 15 to 20 percent free. Delete old downloads, empty the recycle bin and move large photo or video folders to an external drive or a cloud storage.
3. Check what starts with the computer
Many programs start automatically and run in the background. On Windows, open the Task Manager and the Startup apps tab; on a Mac, open System Settings, General, Login Items. Switch off what you do not need every day.
4. Install the updates
Updates fix errors that slow a computer down and close security gaps. Install the updates of the operating system and of your browser. More about this in our article on software updates.
5. Look for unwanted software
Toolbars, "PC cleaners" and other unwanted programs slow a computer down. Uninstall programs you do not know or no longer use, and run a full scan with your antivirus software.
6. Count the browser tabs
Every open tab uses memory. Thirty open tabs can slow down even a good computer. Close what you do not need, and remove browser extensions you do not use.
7. Listen to the hardware
A loud fan, a hot case or a computer that suddenly switches off can point to dust or an old drive. An old hard disk (HDD) replaced by an SSD often makes a computer several times faster.
When to ask for help
- The computer stays slow after these checks.
- You see error messages or strange pop-up windows.
- You hear clicking noises from the drive.
- You are unsure whether your data is backed up.
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