by R. Drum

Created on: July 27, 2009   Last Updated: February 28, 2010

Once speedy computers can seem to creep and crawl at the most inconvenient times. To figure out what is bogging down your computer requires a little bit of low-tech detective work. Is the machine always lethargic, or just sometimes? If only occasionally sluggish, then when is the slowdown noticeable? Does it take a long time between powering-on and actually being able to start a program on your desktop?  Does it seem to take forever to open your favorite digital photos? Are there any pop-up error messages or audible warnings?  Occasional slowness can be caused by software issues. These glitches may crop up when trying to complete a particular task, but not during other times. The focus of this article is identifying and solving the more sustained sluggishness that affects nearly every task you try to accomplish. These troubleshooting tips will give you a good start towards diagnosing and correcting problems that can slow down your computer.

Speed Up Your Computer by Getting Rid of Unwanted Trial Software

Many new computers, including those from major manufacturers like Dell, Lenovo and HP arrive weighed-down with multiple free-trial software programs that can clog even powerful computers.  Each of these trial programs eats up computer resources and tries to grab your attention, hoping you will buy it online. Vendors of anti-virus software suites are especially prone to launching registration pop-ups each time Windows starts. Some computer users appreciate being able to try now and maybe buy later. But when several unruly trial programs compete for resources on a netbook or budget desktop or laptop, the whole system tends to slow-down. The best way to regain control of trial software run amok is by installing a utility that allows you to see what programs are loading automatically. One good freeware utility for Windows XP is Startup Control Panel. The program places an icon under Windows Control panel which reveals the names and file locations of auto-starting programs. By simply un-checking a box next to each program, you can stop it from running automatically. With this tool, you can quickly test each trial software program to determine whether it’s self-starting, lurking in the background and slowing down your computer

Accelerate Your Computer by Removing Malicious Programs

A computer that suddenly slows down may have a virus infection or spyware consuming most of its resources.  As shown by the recent cyber-attacks on Google and

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