As time goes by, our electronic devices become less efficient, slower, and less responsive . This is partly due to aging components, the release of new updates with resource-intensive features, or battery degradation in the case of laptops.
Whether it’s software or hardware issues, many of the causes of computer slowdowns are easily solved. Want to learn more? In this article, we’ll explain the most common reasons your computer’s performance may be affected and how you can fix them yourself.
Let’s start with the basics: optimize your software
Most performance issues can usually be resolved with a good software optimization. Although we’ll focus on Windows 10 in this case, other operating systems have similar tools and processes to improve overall computer performance. Let’s get started!
Be careful with startup applications
Many of the startup applications are unnecessary.
There are many reasons why a program might start with Windows. For example, it might sync your computer’s files with a cloud service, optimize your computer’s audio, or check for driver updates. In any case, some of these programs aren’t necessary. Therefore, we recommend removing them from the list of startup applications. You can do this easily by doing the following:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to the Apps section and then click Start.
- Disable all those you don’t need.
Remember that it is always possible to run these applications after startup, manually.
Have you cleaned your hard drive yet?
Over time, a large number of unnecessary files accumulate on a computer’s storage . They’re easy to delete thanks to the operating system’s official tools. This will allow you to refresh your computer, giving it more room to maneuver and, consequently, improving performance. You can clean your computer’s hard drive as follows:
- Access the Settings app .
- Go to System and then Storage.
- Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
- Turn on Storage Sense or select Clean Now at the bottom of the list of options.
You can use this system manually to free up disk space. But with Active Storage Sense, Windows 10 takes care of everything.
Simplify the look of Windows 10
Avoid animations and other effects that are not necessary to enjoy greater speed.
Effects, transitions, transparencies… it’s true that all of these elements improve the user experience. But on some computers, they can be a hindrance. Fortunately, there is a solution. The first one is found in the Personalization section of the Settings app. In the Colors section, uncheck the Transparency Effects box to reduce the load on the processor and graphics card.
The second solution allows you to customize your system’s visual elements more deeply. Use the Windows search box and type “performance.” Select the Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows option , and in the pop-up window, uncheck any visual effects you consider unnecessary.
Check that your computer has not been infected with a virus
Viruses and other malicious programs are a direct cause of your computer’s performance. Sometimes, they may not put your files or your computer at risk, but they may exploit your device’s resources to show you ads or offer you unnecessary features. Windows 10 integrates a robust security system that you should always keep enabled if you want to stay safe. You can verify this by going to Settings , Update & Security , and finally, Windows Security. There you’ll find settings for the Firewall, protection against viruses and other threats, and installed applications.
Alternatively, you can use an antivirus. To avoid duplicating efforts, Windows security deactivates itself if it detects an equivalent application installed. You can opt for solutions from Panda, AVG, or Avast, many of which are free.
Do you have the latest version of the operating system?
Updates always aim to improve system performance and stability.
The latest versions of Windows (and any operating system) bring not only new features but also performance improvements. Therefore, it’s vital that you always have the latest available update. How?
- Open the Settings app .
- Go to Update & Security.
- If you receive the message “Everything is up to date!” you don’t need to update. Otherwise, apply the updates as soon as possible.
Don’t forget that installing an update usually takes a considerable amount of time. Try to do this outside of your work or school hours.
What if all this doesn’t work? Let’s talk about hardware.
Upgrading key components like RAM and storage can be the solution to your performance issues.
RAM memory
After analyzing the possible software-related causes of poor performance on your computer, we must focus on two of the main components. One of the most important is RAM . It stores a lot of information about the system’s active processes. If you want to upgrade your RAM, you should keep three things in mind:
- RAM speed . In this case, it’s ideal to opt for the latest generation of components.
- RAM capacity . The larger the RAM capacity, the more space the operating system has to store temporary data.
- Yes, it is possible to modify this element on your PC . Many laptops do not allow you to upgrade this component.
Internal storage
On the other hand, internal storage plays an important role in performance. HDDs, or mechanical hard drives, are much slower than solid-state drives, also known as SSDs. Therefore, it may be time to upgrade. You’ll want to keep the same considerations mentioned above for RAM in mind.
