by W.C. Klein

Created on: October 10, 2009   Last Updated: November 29, 2010

Remember when you first got your new personal computer and it seemed so fast? Now it just seems to be getting slower and slower. This doesn't mean that it is too old or that it needs an expensive upgrade. It is more likely that your system is full of files and programs that you don't use anymore or didn't even know were there in the first place. Before you do anything drastic or really expensive, here are five things that may solve most of your problems.

1) Operation

One of the best ways to speed up your PC is to schedule and perform routine maintenance operations on your system. This includes optimizing basic Windows applications, reducing the number of Windows start up programs and adjusting the virtual memory settings. A good tip also is to frequently install downloaded and automatic updates for these programs. This will improve efficiency, which will result in more speed for your system.

2) Sanitation

Increase your speed by removing old or unused programs, applications and files that are no longer needed or used but are still stored on your system. The best way to do this is to go through all the different media stored on your system. When you go through these and eliminate things you no longer need or want it will take most of the unused programs, files, documents, pictures and applications that aren't being used and result in more speed. In addition, you can use the disk cleanup tool to rid your computer of temporary files, cookies and other files routinely used by websites you visit or have visited and you no longer need.

3) Addition

The addition of more memory to your PC is always an option. This enables you to keep more data longer and in greater amounts while not affecting the speed. One of the easiest additions is adding a spyware protection service or program to your PC. This will provide protection from viruses while it removes malware and spyware from your system. The addition of a registry cleaner tool can also help. For a small investment, it will remove registry errors, compact the registry and increase your speed by removing or repairing these errors.

4) Reduction

This is one of the easier solutions. When you reduce the number of start up programs being used, it should increase the speed of your computer. It is important to remove things not used or no longer needed. From there you can then figure out which programs or applications that are most frequently used on the system and get updates for them online automatically.

5) Defragmentation

Using the defragmentation tool is important in order to optimize your system. When used this will realign all the information already on your computer's hard drive and make it easier and faster for your PC to perform at its best.

These are all basic things anyone can use and it doesn't always require a computer degree or an online specialist. Most of these solutions consist of using a combination of basic Windows system tools with websites and programs that specialize in protecting your system from viruses, spyware and malware. Some of the online protection services will often be able to diagnose and repair your system remotely. This means they take control of your system (with your consent) and repair it while you remain online with them.

Now that you know that you have a few more options that aren't real expensive and don't need a computer technician perhaps you can make your old computer last a few more years. If you use these methods you'll help your PC run more efficiently, which will make it operate faster. Hopefully you can make your system last longer and you won't need to put out money for an upgrade or a new computer.

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