Speed Savvy: How To Salvage A Slow Computer

Speeding up your computer is essential for succeeding in today’s fast-paced world. It can be as simple as closing other browsers or as complex as finding and eliminating malware.

In the modern business world, time is money, which means that a slow computer can actually cost you! Systems slowdowns may stem from a variety of causes. To narrow these down and speed your computer up, try:

Browser Basics

One of the most common, and most easily remedied, sources of slow network service is only leaving too many browsers open for long periods. Even if you are not actively using the browsers, they eat up processing power, slowing your device with every additional program you use. Thus whenever you are finished with the website or don’t plan to return to it for more than 10 minutes, close it. To ensure that you do not leave browsers open for extended periods of time, turn your computer off every night before you go to bed.

Sifting Through Startups

In addition to browsers that you intentionally open and fail to close, your computer may also suffer from software that opens automatically when you turn it on. Email accounts, music services, and other programs often open on their own, and the longer you leave them up, the more they will impair your system. To minimize this problem, close any automatic programs as soon as you log in or once you’ve finished using them. You can also reset your computer’s startup log to not open so many programs, though you should consult an IT professional before doing so.

Memory Management

The less hard drive space your computer has, the slower it will be. You can free up extra space by:

• Deleting videos and photo albums once you’ve uploaded them to social media
• Move files from your computer to the cloud
• Use a disk cleanup program to remove whole categories of files
• Eliminate cookies and other temporary files
• Find and remove duplicate and redundant files
• Empty your trash regularly, so the files you delete are actually gone

In addition to deleting files, you can also install a larger hard drive or extra RAM to instantly increase space.

Viable Visuals

Animations, window transparency, drop shadows, and other visual effects may be stylish and convenient, but they eat up extra processing power and slow your computer. Luckily, most systems allow you to disable these altogether or on a case-by-case basis, letting you balance style with speed.

Virus Vigilance

If none of the previous measures work, you may be dealing with a virus or other malicious program. Such a problem is far more severe than a mere computer slowdown. Malware presents a direct threat to you and your business contacts, stealing information and encrypting important files. If you think you have downloaded a virus, contact an IT expert to identify and remove it. Consumer-grade antivirus software often isn’t enough to solve the problem, but a qualified professional can find and eliminate the most pernicious modern programs.

Sensible Systems, LLC. promotes speed and security throughout Littleton. For more information or to schedule service, contact us at {email} or (877) 773-6797 today!