The Blog Street Journal

Business productivity is increasingly reliant computer productivity, yet most users cannot easily optimize their computers and the IT department often requires to be reminded of the simple tasks, which can make a real difference to the average computer user. This article describes simple steps that anyone can follow to rapidly speed up their computer. Implementing step 1 or step 2 should take no more than 15 minutes and will work for both PC and Mac users.

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 simple step is therefore to locate then fix registry errors. Despite the fact that it is possible to repair the registry manually in theory, this method is not recommended. The main reason for this, is that it requires strong knowledge of the structure of the registry as well as 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 compare registry fix software 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 usually happens when peer to peer networks are involved, for example when downloading videos and music. An easy solution to improve the response time of any computer is to run an anti spyware or adware program which will scan, remove then block adware and spyware. In order to try out the right anti spyware or adware program, it is preferable to use a trial version which is usually free. Among the key features to consider are Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software. Often the simplest software are also the best, provided that they also rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for 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. Computer viruses often damage files, can consume excessive amount of memory and take a large amount of space on the hard disk. 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.  Another simple step to improve computer speed is to stop programs launching automatically. 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 frees up space for the computer to swap files, which is used particularly when the operating system starts using virtual memory once it has run out of RAM. The system can slow down significantly in that event, if space on the hard disk is insufficient. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows help scan for errors on the hard disk itself. For instance whilst some hard disks may be large enough, they may be too fragmented with some sectors being unusable. 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. Another free option is to avoid using some computer programs simultaneously.

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.