Is Your PC Running Slowly? Top Reasons and Quick Fixes for Better Performance

We’ve all experienced it — sitting in front of our computer screens, tapping our feet as we wait for a program to load or a web page to refresh. A slow PC can be very annoying when you have important work. But before you consider to buy a new machine, there are several steps you can take to speed up your existing PC. So, one of the first things you should consider is using a PC cleaner to remove clutter and optimize your system for performance. In this article, we’ll run through some common causes of a slow PC and recommend practical ways to fix it.

1. Too Many Startup Programs

Many users are unaware that several programs launch automatically when they start their PCs. Some of these are necessary, while others take up real estate that could be used by the programs they’re actively engaging with. Over time, this can add up to enough startup programs to slow your computer down.

Fix:

• This can be done by opening the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
• Select the Startup tab to view the list of programs on your PC.
• Right-click them individually and choose Disable to turn off what you don’t need.

This will help release system resources and reduce the time it takes for your PC to start up.

2. Cluttered Hard Drive

An almost complete hard drive can significantly slow down your PC. If your hard drive is overwhelmed with files, it is forced to work harder to retrieve data, which can cause slowdowns. Temporary files, system logs, and old downloads can all occupy space that could be used more efficiently.

Image Source: Pixabay

Fix:

• Delete old files or move them to an external storage device.
• This is where you use a PC cleaner tool to scan and remove temporary files, system caches, and junk files.
• If your hard drive is almost complete, you can upgrade to a bigger one or transfer some of your files to cloud storage.

3. Outdated Software and Drivers

ugs can quickly arise due to human error, and software developers routinely publish updates to maximize performance. Outdated versions of programs or drivers can also cause compatibility problems and slow down the operation of your system. So, keeping everything updated is key to smooth performance.

Fix:

• n settings, turn on automatic updates for your OS and individual programs.
• Head to Settings > Update & Security on Windows to manually check for updates.
• Ensure you have the latest versions of your hardware drivers (most notably graphics card and network drivers).

4. Background Processes and Bloatware

Background processes and pre-installed bloat can sap your PC’s resources, leaving little power behind for what you want to do. These programs often operate silently in the background, consuming RAM and CPU resources without you ever having a clue.

Fix:

• Use Task Manager to check if there are resource-hogging processes.
• If you don’t recognize a process, look it up before terminating it. Some processes might be critical for system operations.
• You can uninstall any bloatware you don’t use by clicking Settings > Apps to find and uninstall unnecessary programs.

5. Viruses and Malware

Malicious software is one of the leading causes of slow PCs. Viruses and malware don’t just soak up system resources; they can also crash and corrupt data and cause other large-scale issues that will slow down your PC.

Fix:

• If you have an antivirus program, run a full system scan to allow it to detect and remove threats.
• You might consider using anti-malware software for extra protection.
• Do not download files or programs from untrustworthy sources to avoid future infections.

6. Lack of RAM

Random Access Memory (RAM) is crucial for your PC’s ability to run several programs simultaneously. Performance will suffer if your computer has too little RAM or runs out of it.

Fix:

• You can check this by launching the Task Manager and seeing how much RAM is used.
• Close any open programs that are occupying memory space.
• Note: If your PC has six or fewer GB RAM, then multi-tasking will be easier for your PC if you can get a better RAM capacity.

7. Fragmented Hard Drive (HDD)

Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) can be fragmented, which means the files on your drive spread all over the disk over time. This fragmentation hinders the speed of retrieving and saving files since the system must search for them harder.

Fix:

• Use Windows’s built-in Disk Defragmenter tool to rearrange fragmented data on your hard drive. This is especially helpful for traditional HDDs, while Solid-State Drives (SSDs) do not need defragmentation.
• Open Start, search for defragment, and select Defragment and Optimize Drives.

8. Overheating

A PC’s most common problem is overheating, especially on laptops or systems used for gaming or work related to heavy applications. Overheating PCs hit a certain threshold where they throttle performance to avoid damage. That can result in significant slowdowns.

Fix:

• Ensure proper ventilation by placing your PC on a hard, flat surface.
• To vastly increase airflow, clean out the dust from vents and fans.
• If you’re using a laptop, use a cooling pad or invest in more efficient cooling devices for desktop systems.

9. Faulty Hardware

The reason behind the issue can be faulty hardware in some cases, such as a failed hard drive or overheating CPU. Hardware components have a limited lifespan and can deteriorate over time, affecting your system’s performance.

Fix:

• Use the hardware diagnostic tools to check for issues with your hard drive, RAM, or other components.
• If you have issues with your hardware and suspect it is starting to fail, it will often require replacement (for example, an upgrade to SSD instead of HDD for improved read/write).

Conclusion

If your PC is running sluggishly, don’t panic. Following the steps mentioned in this article can significantly enhance your computer’s performance.  Common issues include too many startup programs, cluttered hard drives, out-of-date software, and unnecessary background processes. System cleaners can polish your PC cleaner and help return it to its former self. It becomes as simple as making these changes to have a faster, more responsive computer to complete all your tasks.