Optimise Computer Performance
How to Optimise Computer Performance in 15 Minutes or Less
fix computer errors
Optimising the performance of any computer is easier than many users think. This article provides simple steps to speed up any computer quickly. Implementing either of the first two steps in this article should take less than 15 minutes using a PC or Mac.
Step 1 - Clean the computer registry
Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The registry is similar to the nervous system of the computer and its 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 to locate then repair the errors in the registry. 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. 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 straightforward solution to improve the speed of any computer is to use an anti spyware or adware program to 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. The overall effectiveness of the software is obviously the main feature to consider, however other features are also important such as Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service. The best software tend to be simple to use and also rely on a research capability to keep up to date with the latest 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. Running the latest version of some of the leading anti-virus software should overcome these problems and users who do so will be in a stronger position to improve the performance of their computer.
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 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 program is another step that can be completed to improve the speed 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. An alternative option, which is also free is simply not to use certain 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. 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.
You may want to check out my other guide on Megapixels Digital Camera or Digital Video Recorder
