2 of 12

Write now Article Tools

Page 3 of 3

all of the windows are closed and then restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Be aware that if you disable the page file and your computer does not have enough RAM to handle your computing needs, you will probably be seeing a lot of memory errors or undefined errors and your computer will lock up when running large memory-intensive programs. If this happens, simply go back into the hard drive settings and re-enable the page file.

- Virus/spyware/adware

There are many harmful and malicious programs trying to attack your computer every day. Even with the most vigilant software, sometimes a virus or other threat will still sneak through. It's always a good idea to have a comprehensive protection program running (such as Norton 360, McAfee, or Kapersky) but if you suspect your computer has been infected, run a couple of different programs to scan and root out any problems. Often times one program will detect a problem file that another program missed. For adware and spyware, there are many good free programs available for you to download, including Adaware, Spybot, CA Anti-Spy, and TrojanHunter. You should also run Windows Defender, because it will specifically search for programs that are making changes to Windows or affecting the way the operating system works.

- Other problems

If you've tried all of these solutions and your computer is still slow, it may be a compatibility problem between two or more programs. I have heard a lot of people say that when they install the Google Toolbar in Internet Explorer 7, their web browsing slows to a crawl. I recently had a problem with Internet Explorer not recognizing the "Tab" and "Delete" keys and then eventually crashing, and when I uninstalled an old printer driver the problem went away.

Problems like these are very hard to troubleshoot, but if your computer only gets slow while running certain programs, you at least have an idea of where to start. Try disabling other running programs, one at a time, to see if the performance changes at all.

You may come to the point where investing in a brand new computer is the best answer. In addition to a fresh start, buying a new computer will more than likely mean a faster and larger hard drive and a faster and more powerful CPU. Even if you buy a new computer, remember to defragment your hard drive once a month and keep an eye on those startup programs.

Learn more about this author, Greg Schwartz.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3

Add your voice

Know something about Things that may slow down your computer?
We want to hear your view. Write now!