Why My Computer Runs Slow

There is certainly nothing more frustrating when your computer runs slow. We did, after all, buy a computer to make our lives easier and not to frustrate ourselves whilst programs take ages to open and perform.

Re-Formatting

I have had this problem many times and have reverted to re-formatting my hard drive and doing a fresh install of the operating system. Your computer will be just like the day you bought it - great speed but nothing on it! So, before you try this option you need to ensure that you have backed up all the files you want to save and can access the programs that you need. Don't forget that if you do not have the program CD's because you may have purchased a download software product, please make sure that you have backed up the download and have any product key available.

Whilst re-formating your hard drive as above is an option, it can take some time to complete and if it is your first attempt, there can be worrying moments. Many times I have done this, thought I have backed up all the files and programs I need, only to find out that something is missing and I have had to re-purchase some software!

RAM

Your computer could be running slow because since you purchased it (many years ago!) you have loaded up numerous programs and games that are simply slowing down your machine because it cannot cope with the load.

In this instance you would probably need to increase the amount of RAM (Random Access memory) in the PC. These days with the relative cheapness of RAM, you really should be looking to have at least 1 megabyte but as an absolute minimum, 500kb.

Before purchasing additional RAM, you will need to ensure that your computers motherboard can physically accept more memory (is there an available slot?) and what type of RAM it requires. Looking at the manual for the motherboard (search the internet for the model number if you do not have the manual) will help you here and also show you where the RAM slots are on your machine so you can check if there is capacity for more memory.

De-Fragmenting

The more and more you use your computer, the files and directories that are stored on your hard drive become a total mess and will take longer for your machine to find for you. This is simply resolved by defragmenting the hard drives.

Windows provides a utility to do this within the operating software. It is slow but is cheap. There are better commercial programs available both paid and free if this becomes a nuisance for you. You do really need to defrag your computer regularly.

Spyware / Adware

Another reason for a slow PC is an infestation of Spyware or Adware. There are essentially two types of Spyware.

The less dangerous type either causes lots of ads to pop up whenever you go on the Internet, or it may record your shopping and surfing habits in order to report the details to someone who is willing to pay for such information. These steal your PC's clock cycles, cause your hard drive to get bloated and results in a slow system.

The second kind of Spyware are used by people that want to steal your credit card and personal deatils so they can clean out your bank accounts and assume your identity! Both of these can be easily removed by using Spyware / Adware removal and protection software. There are both free and paid versions available on the internet.

What I Do

So, If your computer runs slow, don't just discard it or put up with the situation. It is not difficult to have a smooth running computer by following a few simple steps. I use this guide that is simple step by step instructions and I have not had to re-format my hard drives since I have used it. Oh, and my computer works at lightening speed! To experience good driving lessons ->

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