The Blog Street Journal

This article covers simple steps that any user can follow to rapidly make any computer faster. Step 1 or Step 2 in this article can generally be implemented within 15 minutes with a PC or a Mac.

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The registry is comparable to a nervous system. Its main function is to connect software hardware and computer files. Over time, errors occur and this slows down computers, frequently their registry become corrupted. A straightforward step is to locate any errors in the registry then repair them. Cleaning the registry manually is possible but not recommended, as this method requires specific knowledge of the registry structure and its functions. Using a registry cleaner software is a faster, more reliable option to eliminate errors, redundant files, incorrect links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on fix computer registry for more information.

Step 2 - Delete and block adware and spyware

Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. This happens particularly often, when peer to peer networks are being used to download music and videos for example. A simple solution to make any computer faster is to run an anti spyware or adware program to scan, remove then block these unwanted malware. It helps to test the relevant anti spyware or adware program by downloading a trial version as most of them are free. Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software are the main features to consider. The best software rely on a research capability to constantly detect new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.

Step 3 - Eliminate viruses

Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Often viruses damage computer files and use excessive resources such as large amount RAM and disk space. In order to overcome these problems, as well as optimise performance, users should run the latest version of the best anti-virus programs. In the end, they will also be in a stronger position to improve their computer performance.

Step 4 - Simple housekeeping tasks

There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed.  Alternatively, stopping programs to launch automatically can also improve the performance of any computer. These simple tasks generally produce marginal improvements.

Step 5 - Optimise the Hard disk

For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. This free space is an important contributor of your computer speed as it is used by temporary files placed there by computer programs. This also enables the operating system to swap files using the hard disk as it runs out of RAM. In that event, users can experience a reduction in speed, if too little space is available on the hard disk. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows can help check for errors on the hard disk. For instance the hard disk may be too fragmented and some of its sectors may be damaged, and this can create problems even if the hard drive is large enough. Running a defragmentation software is another useful step which will improve computer performance. 

Step 6 - Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This reduces the RAM which is available for other programs. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. Alternatively running certain programs simultaneously should also be avoided, this option is of course free.

Step 7 - Stop the computer from overheating

Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. The best solution is often to replace the fan, this overcomes the problem by increasing the air flow through the computer thereby reducing its temperature and ultimately improving reponse times.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster.