This article covers simple steps that any user can follow to rapidly make any computer faster. Implementing either of the first two steps in this article should take less than 15 minutes using a PC or Mac.

 

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The main functions of a registry are about connecting hardware, software and computer files. In practice therefore, the computer registry acts as the computer's nervous system. Errors often lead to the corruption of the registry, and reduce the computer speed . A straightforward step is to locate any errors in the registry then repair them. Cleaning the registry manually is possible but not recommended, as this method requires specific knowledge of the registry structure and its functions. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on fix computer registry for more information.

 

Step 2 - Delete and block adware and spyware

Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. A straightforward solution to improve the speed of any computer is to use an anti spyware or adware program to scan, remove then block adware and spyware. In order to try out the right anti spyware or adware program, it is preferable to use a trial version which is usually free. Among the key features to consider are Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software. The best software tend to be the simplest to use and rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.

 

Step 3 - Eliminate viruses

Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Computer viruses often damage files, can consume excessive amount of memory and take a large amount of space on the hard disk. Running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs will fix many of the problems which are detrimental to computer performance.

 

Step 4 - Simple housekeeping tasks

There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed.  Alternatively, stopping programs to launch automatically can also improve the performance of any computer. These simple tasks generally produce marginal improvements.

Step 5 - Optimise the Hard disk

For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. The amount of free space on the hard drive is a key factor of performance as it is used by temporary files needed by software to run. This also enables the operating system to swap files using the hard disk as it runs out of RAM. In that event, unless sufficient  space is free on the hard disk, the system slows down significantly. To check the hard disk itself it is recommended to use a disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows. For example, whilst the hard drive may be large enough, the problem may be that it is too fragmented or that some of its sectors have been damaged. Using a defragmentation program will also improve any computer's speed. 

 

Step 6 - Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This adversely impacts the RAM available for other programs. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. An alternative free option is simply to not run some computer programs at the same time as each other.

 

Step 7 - Stop the computer from overheating

Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. To overcome this problem, installing a new fan is the best solution which will reduce the computer's temperature by increasing the airflow and ultimately improve response time.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster.