Shout It Loud

There are many ways to optimize a computer and this article covers simple steps to make any computer faster quickly. 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 main functions of a registry are about connecting hardware, software and computer files. In practice therefore, the computer registry acts as the computer’s nervous system. Typically the computer registry becomes more prone to errors over time, is frequently corrupted, and this slows down the computer. A simple step is therefore to locate then fix registry errors. Users could in theory attempt to cleanup the registry manually, however this method is not recommended as it requires deep knowledge of both the structure of the registry and its functions. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor 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. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. One of the simplest solutions to improve any computer’s speed is to use an anti spyware or adware software to scan, remove and block these unwanted threats. Most anti spyware or adware software have a free trial version and it is worth using this first to try out the program. 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. The best software tend to be the simplest to use and 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. Running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs will fix many of the problems which are detrimental to 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 free space also enables your computer to swap files as the computers starts using virtual memory (when it runs out of RAM). Unless sufficient space on the hard disk is availble, the system slows down significantly in that event. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows , can also help check for errors on the hard disk itself. For instance, your hard disk may be large enough but too fragmented and some disk sectors may have been damaged. Defragmenting the hard disk is another action, which will improve the response time of any computer. 

Step 6 - Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This means that other programs have less memory to run. Running out of RAM too fast is not uncommon and users who have this problem should consider upgrading the memory on their computer. 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. To overcome this problem, installing a new fan is the best solution which will reduce the computer’s temperature by increasing the airflow and ultimately improve response time.

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