Computer running slow is very frustrating. Computer tends to get slower over time, and it can be caused by many reasons. Here are some tips on what to do if your computer is getting slower:
1. Defragment your hard disk
Fragmentation will certain occur every time we use the computer. It occurs because the computer constantly erases and creates files, even though we don't delete nor create any file. Windows does it in the background.

Weekly, or monthly at most, we should defragment our hard disk. Windows provides Disk Defragmenter (Start|Programs|Accessories|Sy stem Tools|Disk Defragmenter) that helps us with this job.

2. Uninstall applications we no longer need
Too many applications will make the computer slower, because applications usually have more DLLs for Windows to load, and consume the RAM space. Applications also make the registry fatter. Uninstalling applications will lighten up the burden of the computer, allowing it to work faster.

3. Clean Windows registry
Windows registry also tends to get fatter and fatter. Sadly, Windows doesn't provide registry cleaning applications. Luckily, such applications are often available at a very low price, or even free. Simply search the Google with keyword "Registry Cleaner".

4. Remove unnecessary start up applications
Many applications put something in the start up group in the start menu. Many of them are not important. Removing the start up programs will allow the computer to run faster.

5. Remove unneeded fonts
More fonts means slower computer. Fonts are all loaded at start up, filling up more space in the RAM, leaving less space for applications. It all leads to slower computer.

6. Check for possibility of virus or spyware
Anti-virus and anti-spyware applications are not embedded in Windows, yet many of such applications are free. Virus and spyware will frustrate most computer users. I can recommend Spybot Search-and-Destroy and Lavasoft AdAware 2007 to overcome spyware problems, AVG or Avast to overcome viruses. All of them are available for free download. Avast will require registration that last for 1 year, which can be renewed, at no charge at all.

7. Consider adding more RAM
Nowadays, 1GB is the recommended minimum RAM. Upgrading to 1GB doesn't need a lot of money, since the price has gone down very significantly in the past 2 years.

8. Free up more space in hard disk
Leave at least 2GB for primary booting partition.

The 8 steps above usually give significant boost to computer performance. If all else fail, consider buying a much faster computer.

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

---

Add your voice

Know something about What to do if your computer is running slow?
We want to hear your view. Write now!