Computer Repair How To: Technology 101

Computer Repair Question: Why is my Computer so Slow?

Published on: March 7th, 2011

We’ve all been there. Our computer is working perfectly fine when all of a sudden it just – slows. down. Not fun, right? Well, lucky for you we were able to put together some of the best solutions to some of the most common causes for a slow computer.

Common Causes of a Slow PC or Mac

Here are some classic reasons why your computer might be slowing down:

• Hard Drive Too Full

Your hard drive could be too full of data to function efficiently. There should be at least 300MB-500MB of free space to allow for disk file chores. This mostly applies to the C: dive or whatever drive your Windows cache is on. If your C: drive is too full, delete unused programs on the C: drive to make space.

• Fragmented Hard Drive

This problem results from programs being loaded and deleted. Run the Windows hard drive defragmenter (Defrag) once a month.

• Background Programs

Your computer may have too many background programs running that there is not enough main memory to run your main programs. To see and remove all running background programs:

• Press the Ctrl + Alt + Delete keys at the same time.
• Click any program or task except Explorer or Systray.
• Then click End Task.

After this, you should have a clean system. However, you have just removed the programs from your computer’s memory, a majority of them will likely restart the next time your computer starts.

• Low Memory

If you have 256 MB of memory or less, or if you like to play games, you may not have enough system memory to run your software efficiently. What should you do? Upgrade to at least 512 MB or more.

• Malware

Your computer could be full of adware, spyware, viruses, or trojans. These are challenging programs that literally take over the functioning of your computer so they can run their programs. To get rid of these and to prevent them from installing in the first place, you need to update your firewall, anti-virus, and spyware removal programs.

If you have questions about why your computer is running slow or need help addressing a slow computer, contact your local Computer Troubleshooters today. We proudly serve both residential and commercial clients with exceptional computer services.