If You Have a Slow PC, Try These Solutions First
Nothing provides more frustration than working with a slow PC. Although tempting, a hard-reset should be considered as a last resort, since it can corrupt the operating system or the data files that are currently open. Consider the following possible sources for a slow computer – many times, there is a quick fix that can get your slow PC back up to its normal operating speed without jeopardizing your vital data.
1. Your PC May Need a Reboot
It is very common for people to leave their PCs on all day and night. It is incredibly handy to have your computer at the ready for when you need it, and there is no risk to your hardware for doing so. However, once a week or so, it’s a good idea to reboot your PC. Processes eat up RAM, which sometimes won’t be released back to the PC without a reboot. Many times, performing a restart will fix a slow PC issue.
2. Your Hard Drive is Getting Full
If you have less than 20% of free hard drive space, you probably are experiencing a slow-down. Hard drives do more than store and retrieve data – they also act as a parking-lot for RAM that is not currently in use by the operating system. If there is too little hard drive space, then reads and writes to the drive happen more frequently, and a slow PC is sure to follow.
3. Your Hard Drive is Fragmented
Windows 7 is relatively successful at keeping your hard drive defragmented; however, over time, adding and deleting files does lead to hard drive fragmentation. The effect of fragmentation causes slowness, as multiple pieces of the same file might physically be located on different sectors of the hard drive. Defragmenting a fragmented hard drive in the face of a slow PC can do wonders for your overall PC speed.
4. Too Many Processes Running
As you install new programs, many add processes that are scheduled to start when the PC is run. For example, Flash, Java, and Google update processes are always running to make sure the latest versions are installed. Using MSCONFIG, you can disable these startup processes from running. Disabling these can speed up your boot time. Additionally, spyware and adware creates a lot of processes which bog down your PC. Conduct a virus scan and make sure that nothing malicious is running on your PC.
5. Not Enough RAM
Another big source of a slow PC is simply not enough RAM is installed. RAM is cheap, and has the ability to greatly speed up your PC by eliminating the need for virtual memory to be loaded on and off the hard drive. Even a once-fast PC might need more RAM as programs and operating systems get updated. Take a look at the process manager, and see how much free physical RAM you have. If it is getting low, then low-cost RAM is the best upgrade you can make to increase your productivity and reduce your frustration.
6. Get a Professional Diagnosis
If none of these solutions work for your PC or you are not sure how to implement them, then you can contact our support technicians for some advice, or for a full diagnosis. dmi networking is based in Santa Rosa, CA, and provides service both locally and across the US.