Last week we took a look at the first of 10 tips to possibly help your computer run faster. The all slow down with age like me, but we can try a few tricks with them, to get them back in shape. And today I include an extra.
- Run disk cleanup. A disk cleanup can help free up space on your hard drive, which can improve your computer’s performance. Do to various reasons, over time, your hard drive can become cluttered with junk files that are unneeded. This can slow down your computer because it has to spend more time searching for the files it needs along with all the mess mixed in. Cleaning up your hard drive can help to improve your computer’s performance by freeing up space and making it easier for the computer to find the files it needs. You can clean up your hard drive by deleting old files, uninstalling unused programs, and emptying the recycle bin. Easiest way to do it is click your Windows menu button and type “disk cleanup” and when it appears click it and run it on your C drive.
- Run virus scan. Viruses and other malware can slow down your PC by using up resources and interfering with system processes. Even if they are not dangerous. Running a virus scan can help to remove any malware from your computer and improve its performance. It is important to use a reputable antivirus program and to scan your computer regularly. Click the Windows button again and type, “windows security” and follow along. I feel like Windows Defender that comes preloaded on Windows 10 and 11 is all you need. I would also consider adding in the free version of Malwarebytes.com for home users.
- Update the operating system and all software. Updates include bug fixes, code that makes them operate better, and speed increase, along with other things to help users. By keeping your operating system and software up to date, you can help to ensure that your PC is running at its best. Software updates can also include new features and functionality, so it is important to install them regularly. I have shared with you how to update both in the past, please make sure you do so when you happen to think about it.
- Upgrade your hard drive. If your computer has a slow hard drive, upgrading to a faster hard drive can improve its performance. Use a solid-state drive (SSD). A solid-state drive (SSD) can be much faster than a traditional hard drive. Consider upgrading to an SSD for much better speed and performance overall. This will require you to do it yourself (check YouTube.com) or pay someone.
- Upgrade your RAM. Random Access Memory (RAM) is used to store data that is being used on your computer. If you have too little RAM, your computer may have to use the hard drive to store data, which is much slower than RAM. Adding more RAM can help to improve your computer’s performance by making it able to store more data in memory and reducing the need to use the hard drive. This will also require you to do it yourself (check YouTube.com) or pay someone.
OK, I thought of one more I should mention, so you can consider the following one a bonus tip. Enjoy!
- Use a wired Internet connection. A wired Internet connection is more reliable and faster than a wireless connection. If you have the option, use a wired Internet connection to improve your computer’s performance. A wired connection will provide a more stable and consistent connection, which can be important for activities such as gaming, video streaming, surfing the web, and even getting your email. You may have to contact your Internet service provider for this unless you know how to so it yourself.
