Slow Computer?

[calypso]

So, you got your computer, you have it all set up, and then you discover - It's REALLY slow. Posted below are a list of the most common problems and solutions that cause slow computers.

[calypso]

You've got a virus.

A common reason a computer runs really slow is you have a virus or many viruses. The only way to deal with that is to run a virus scanner such as AVG Free, Norton, McAfee, Panda, etc. If you don't have any anti-virus, simply visit the following website:

free.avg.com/ww.download-avg-anti-virus-free-edition

I know first hand that this is one of the only free anti-virus programmes that actually works and is free of spyware/adware/trojans.
If these viruses are too pesky and you just can't get them out, it may be time to back up your data and reinstall Windows. Don't do this though, unless you know what you're doing.

[calypso]

You've got spyware/adware.

Probably the second most common reason a computer runs really slow. Spyware and adware run all sorts of different things on your computer to collect your information, browsing habits, etc. If you have enough of them on your computer, it adds up to one really slow computer.
Fire up your internet browser, and go to:

www.ewido.net/en/onlinescan/

and perform their free online scan. Works like a charm.

[calypso]

You need more memory.

This is by far the biggest one with Windows based machines. Your computer is running really slow simply because it doesn't have enough memory to get the job done. A computer likes to store the activities its currently working on inside of your memory (or RAM, same thing). RAM is way faster than your hard drive, so it makes sense. It temporarily stores the data into RAM and allows quick access. When you have too little RAM, your computer has to use the hard drive to access the data, and as such, runs really slow. How much RAM do you need? If you are running Windows XP, you want at least 512MB to maintain a smooth experience. If you're looking at Windows Vista, grab at least 1GB. If you aren't sure how much you currently have, right click the "my computer" icon and choose "properties." You should be able to see system information.
If your RAM isn't up to scratch, next time you're in town, stop in at your local computer shop. They should be able to buy/install more RAM into your Laptop/Computer.

[calypso]

You have too many things running in the system tray.

This goes hand in hand with needing more RAM, but another common cause. Close out all the programs in there you don't need. I'd suggest stopping some of them from starting on boot up. To do so go to start > run > type "msconfig" (no quotes) and a window will pop up. Click the Startup tab and look through the items, unchecking anything you don't need to start up. If you aren't sure what it is, leave it alone. But ask yourself, do I REALLY need this program to start every time I boot up? It will greatly help your computer out.

[calypso]

Internet cache.

Whenever you visit a website, it stores cookies in your computer. These are temporary files created so that when you visit that website again, it won't take as long to load. But sometimes these can have a negative effect on the overall speed of your computer. The solution? Visit:

www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/

And download 'CCleaner'. Install it, and then run it. I recommend you do this at least once a week.

[calypso]

Last thing I can think of right now - defragging your hard drive.

Don't worry, this might sound complicated, but it's relatively easy.
Open My Computer, Right click your hard drive. (commonly known as C:) go properties, then tools. Then click 'Defragment now' Or something along those lines. Follow the instructions from there.

How does this help, you may ask?
Fragmentation makes your hard disk do extra work that can slow down your computer. Disk Defragmenter rearranges fragmented data so your hard disk can work more efficiently.

Note that this can take anywhere from several minutes to hours to complete. You can still use your computer while it is Defragging.