According to Google AdWords, over 6 million people searched the web in May 2010 searching for answers on how to fix their slow computer or to find out what causes a slow computer. A slow computer can be a source of terrific turmoil when trying to get work completed or even just trying to get a little gaming done.
Why do computers slow down? What causes a slow computer? Is there a quick fix to a slow computer? Will buying expensive software speed up a slow computer?
Speed Up My Computer
Whether on the TV or radio, many people in North America are familiar with the DoubleMySpeed.com and MyFasterPC.com commercials. These are the commercials that guarantee to get a slow computer running faster instantly with their miraculous software.
The problem with this is that the software sold on both websites are simply enhanced registry cleaners. And, while issues with the registry can result in a computer operating a little slower, it is just one piece of a much larger puzzle.
What Causes a Slow Computer?
As mentioned previously, registry cleaner programs only address a fraction of the issues that contribute to a slow running computer. There are in fact many factors that impact how fast a computer is able to perform. They are:
- Age of the computer
- The RAM
- The hard drive
- Installed programs
- The registry
- Viruses, Malware and Adware
Slow Computer: Age
As things get older, they wear out; a computer is no different. Components wear out from regular use as a result of dirt in the environment they are exposed too as well as from repeated heating and cooling. Every time the computer is turned off, it cools down, and when turned on it heats up.
Metal and plastics expand and contract which slowly weaken and degrade resulting in poorer performance. Age also plays a big part when considering the programs installed. Newer software is often designed to work better with newer machines, thus over time, while the computer may be able to run the newer software, it may have to work harder to do so.
Slow Computer: RAM
RAM is what the computer uses to operate programs and surf the internet. Unlike the memory of the hard drive, RAM is memory used for temporary operations which will not be saved to the computer. The less RAM available to use, the slower the computer will run. Opening the Performance tab of Task Manager will display how much of the total available RAM is currently being used by the computer. If the RAM usage is high (more than 50%), adding more RAM would certainly help.
Slow Computer: Hard Drive
Think of the hard drive like a bookshelf full of books or DVDs. Would finding a specific movie or book be faster if the shelf was organized in alphabetical order and/or by genre? Like a bookshelf, a computer operates better when its hard drive is kept organized. Using a good defrag program regularly will ensure the hard drive remains neat and orderly thus making it easier for the computer to find files and programs.
Slow Computer: Installed Programs
Look at the lower right corner task bar, to the left of where the current time is displayed; expand that area to see how many applications are either currently running or are ready to run. Are there many? How many programs or applications are launched during start up? Each one of those applications are using up computer resources.
The more programs and applications running at the same time, the more resources are required and the slower the computer will operate even if they are not immediately seen on the screen. Does the printer always need to be primed and ready for printing? Shut down programs not regularly used and/or remove them from the start up operation.
Slow Computer: The Registry
The registry of a computer is essentially (in its most basic sense), a library of commands and file locations. Over time, through the installing and uninstalling of software, creating and deleting of files as well as surfing the web, the registry becomes disorganized and in need of attention. A good registry cleaner will ensure this area remains in order.
Slow Computer: Viruses, Malware and Adware
A virus is typically fairly noticeable as its usually designed to shutdown a computer, but not always. Viruses can also be used for hidden purposes which rob the computer of vital resources. Malware and Adware too can do the same; opening unneeded (and unwanted) applications and processes, all which will contribute to a slower computer. Prevent these issues by maintaining up-to-date guardian software which includes reliable anti-virus, anti-malware and anti-adware programs.
Each one of the above items alone, may not result in a noticeable difference in the speed of the computer. As such, fixing or addressing only one or two of the issues may not result in any performance improvement.
A slow computer is the result of many small issues, each which needs to be addressed. In many instances, the user does not need to spend money in order to get their computer running faster, but it will require time and interest. So, before running out to buy the latest “guaranteed to make your pc run faster” software, stop for a moment and go through the above items. It may very well be that a faster pc requires no purchase at all.
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