Help! My Computer is Running Slow!
If your Windows-based computer is running slow, you are not alone. Thousands of other people encounter the same problem everyday. You therefore have no need to fret. There are solutions to common problems that can slow down your computer. The first real step though is to identify the real problem. Only when you do so can you find the right solution. There can be a host of different problems with possible solutions. Here are only some of them.
Memory Shortage
Your problem may simply be due to a low RAM capacity. RAM stands for random access memory. This is the kind of memory capacity that your PC would need to perform well when you open several applications, programs, windows or browsers at the same time. The lower your RAM, the slower your computer will get with many applications on.
The only solution for this is not to open so many applications or windows at one time. You can also alternatively assess a PC unit first before purchasing it. If you predict that you need a lot of RAM, you should settle for a higher one. Most of the time, Windows XP will do well with a 512MB RAM. Vista on the other hand may require a higher RAM capacity. The graphics used in Vista may actually add to sluggish PC performance when you perform multiple tasks.
Viral Infections
Like many other computer problems, a virus could be the culprit for slow performance. There are many different kinds of viruses that may intentionally slow down your PC. Everyday, new viruses get created and can creep into your system. This is especially if you open files from online sources or use data storage devices that have been to in touch with other PCs.
The solution is obvious. You should get a good anti virus and run it on a schedule to detect possible viral infections. Make sure you also periodically update your scanner. This will ensure that your scanner will be able to detect new viruses.
Spyware
Adware or spyware could be the reason why your computer is running slow. Whenever you browse the internet, you are always at risk of unknowingly catching spyware which are like hitchhiker spies. They enter your computer and secretly try to determine what you are doing, when you are browsing and what you are browsing. Some advertisers resort to using this technique to determine what ads might work on you. All the secret activities of these spywares can bog your PC. Like virus protection, you can also get spyware protection. Get good anti-spyware software to help you keep these unwanted infiltrators away.
Fragmentation
Some files figuratively crumble to pieces after a period of time. When this happens and you need to view a file, the computer would have to take some time retrieving the pieces that you need thereby contributing to slow PC performance. The only solution to this is to periodically use the defragment command.
Hardware Problems
It is possible that your computer’s problem may be more physical than you think. Damages to the CPU or motherboard could be the main reason why your computer is not running as fast as it should. Hardware repair or replacement could be your only recourse.
Registry Problems
The registry is the database that keeps a record of all the changes you have made to your system. This includes programs installed and application preferences and options. Through prolonged use, you could end up with a bloated registry. It may even include gaps and programs that are not completely uninstalled.
One way to solve registry problems is to buy cleaner software. Good ones can provide instant back up to your system, comprehensive registry scans and repair work.
Don’t panic when your computer is running slow. There is always a solution depending on your problem.
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