by Lorraine Traylor

Created on: October 09, 2009   Last Updated: October 28, 2009

Five ways to speed up a slow computer

1.) The number one way to speed up a slow computer is to install more RAM. RAM is the computer's random access memory, which is the place where the operating system, the programs and all the information on your computer is stored. So if you have more RAM it is like having quicker access to those files thus speeding up your computer.

Think of it like this; when you have 1GB of RAM you have ten files clerks running around retrieving files when you ask for them, which is what is happening when you request a file from your computer's memory. You can expand your computer's RAM to 4GB relatively inexpensively, even 8GB watching the sales and you will be blown away at the speed you achieve from your previously cumbersome machine.

Replacing RAM is quite simple, especially in laptops, but can be near as easy in desktops.

First of all you need to know if your computer is still under warranty. If it is, you need to have the RAM upgraded by a professional covered under your warranty so as not to void your warranty.

If your computer is no longer under warranty and you do not feel comfortable replacing the RAM yourself, several computer shops will do this for you for a nominal fee

If your computer is or isn't under warranty and you still wish to replace or upgrade your RAM first you need to know what type of RAM you are going to need. It's best at this time just to take either your RAM or your computer with you at this time or your model number to the computer shop.

DDR and DDR2 are the typical types of RAM with DDR being found in the older computers.

Some computers require even amounts of RAM in both or all four slots while others do not. Keep this in mind when you purchase your new RAM. To be on the safe side, buy in equal increments. For example, if you have four slots, buy four 1GB or two slots buy two 2 GB. Instead of one 1GB and one 2 GB.

2.) After RAM the second easiest way to keep your computer from slowing down is to keep it uncrowded. Purchasing an external storage device would be advisable. This serves two purposes, it keeps your important files from disappearing and it keeps them from bogging down your machine. If you are to purchase a mass storage device it is something that you can access from your computer(s) without any hassle anytime.

3.) Disc clean-up. You should do this on a monthly basis. This is like changing your oil in a car but instead of so many miles it is recommended on a monthly basis.

4.) Defragment. Like disc clean up this should be done on a monthly basis. If you don't know how to do defrag or clean up, go into you start up menu to system tools and you we see these two options.

5.) My last suggestion is monthly when you do you disc cleanup and defrag , take your computer into safe mode (shut down your computer and when it reboots hit f8 repeatedly and go into safe mode) go into add and delete programs and get rid of any programs that you didn't add that are suspicious. Then restart your computer. When all is done don't forget to use compressed air on the keyboard and wipe down the whole thing with a computer safe cloth!

Happy computing!

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