Working on a slow computer is one of the most frustrating things in the world when you’re trying to get stuff done. The longer you’ve had your computer, the slower it is likely to be, gradually wearing down as you fill it with files and run multiple programs on it. But that doesn’t mean that there’s no making a comeback for your slow device. There are a number of things you can try to restore your computer to its original snappy functioning.
The Operating System
No matter whether you use a Windows Laptop or an iMac computer, it is important to run the latest version and updates of their operating systems. These versions and updates contain stronger security functions that keep your computer safe and they allow it to run programs old and new more smoothly. Protection from bugs, fixing glitches and the ability to cooperate with newer programs can speed up simple tasks.
Your Broadband
You may find that it’s not your computer at all that is slowing things down. If you only encounter problems when on the internet, it may be worth measuring your internet speed and considering switching providers. Companies like Usave can help you find the best broadband deals in your area, setting you up with a faster connection and maybe even saving you money.
Your Internal Hard Drive
Sometimes it’s just a lack of space that is hindering you computers performance. As your hard drive approaches full capacity, it has to handle thousands of files and index them. Sometimes this takes more memory than is available, so it resorts to swapping, which slows things down. Deleting files you no longer need or using external storage can be extremely useful and relieve your machine’s internal drive, it should be under 80% full to be able to function properly. Additionally, files are sometimes fragmented when saved, which takes more memory to access them. You can also try defragmenting your computer to free up space.
Start up and Background Programs
When you start your computer up, you often find that lots of programs automatically launch, many of which you don’t even use that regularly. You can disable this function for the programs you do not need which will free up your devices RAM, allowing it to run faster. Similarly, lots of programs tend to run in the background, using up valuable resources. Launch your task manager or access the “force quit” screen on your mac to shut down any programs that you don’t need to be running.
Never Shutting Down
Far too often we just let our devices go into sleep mode and no longer turn them off and let them properly rest. Running a simple system shut down every now and then could do your device a world of good, particularly if you’ve installed any new programs.
Of course, you computer really could just be at the end of its life, so if buying a new one is your only real solution, make sure to consider things like internal space and RAM so that you won’t run into these problems again when your new device gets old!
