Your computer running slower than you’d like is a common frustration many of us face. The good thing is there are simple ways to speed up your computer without spending any money. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that can contribute to a sluggish computer and provide practical tips to help you optimize its performance. By following these cost-free methods, you’ll be able to enjoy a faster and more responsive computer experience. So, let’s get started and give your computer the boost it deserves.
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Top Tips on How to Speed Up Your Computer for Free
After purchasing a new PC, it usually works at a very great speed. But over time, your PC gathers bits of temporary files resulting in an overloaded hard drive. After a while, you will notice a reduction in your processing speed. Although you can’t totally eliminate the impact of aging on computer slowdown, you can take a few measures to boost your computer’s processing speed and reduce startup time. Below are steps you can take:
1. Uninstall bloatware
Although there has been progress, an ongoing issue with new computers revolves around the excessive presence of unnecessary software, commonly referred to as bloatware. To uninstall any undesired application promptly, right-click its icon in the Start menu and select the “Uninstall” option. Another quick method is typing “Programs” into the search box next to the Start button.
To pinpoint the culprits responsible for the bloatware, you can sort the list of installed apps by the name of your PC manufacturer. Alternatively, sorting by “Recent” allows you to identify any programs you unknowingly installed while sorting by “Size” enables you to eliminate large, unnecessary items. Once you come across unwanted junk apps, select them and click “Uninstall.” Remember to focus on uninstalling pre-installed bloatware and applications you installed but no longer require. Additionally, be vigilant about uninstalling unwanted software accompanying the programs you want.
2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs
If your computer is slow when starting up, it may be due to too many programs launching simultaneously with Windows. These additional programs running automatically at startup can significantly hinder your computer’s performance. While some programs, such as antivirus software, are crucial and should continue running on startup, others may be dispensable.
To take control of your startup programs, begin by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting Task Manager (or press Ctrl-Shift-Escape). Proceed to the Startup tab, where you will see a complete list of each item that opens during startup and its respective impact on system resources.
Next, assess these programs and determine which ones can be disabled from automatic startup. Many programs have a default setting that allows them to launch during the boot-up process, and over time, this cumulative effect can significantly contribute to a slow startup process.
It is important to note that specific programs are essential for the proper operation of Windows. For instance, programs listed with Microsoft as the publisher should be untouched. If you are uncertain about a particular program, either leave it enabled or conduct a Google search to gather more information. To prevent a program from launching during boot-up, right-click on it and select Disable. Remember, turning off a program at startup does not disable it entirely but prevents it from initiating automatically.
3. Update Your Windows and Drivers to the latest version
Updating your windows is not just about improving security; it also significantly boosts performance. Windows will promptly notify you whenever an update is available, so quickly address it instead of constantly postponing it.
To see if you still need to get any updates, follow these simple steps. Click on the Start button, select Settings or the settings icon, then navigate to Windows Update (or Updates & Security > Windows Update if you’re using an older version). In addition to updating your Windows operating system, it’s equally important to keep your drivers and applications updated. This practice ensures both greater security and better performance.
4. Delete Files You No Longer Need
Windows 10 offers a highly effective built-in tool called Storage Sense, streamlining this process. Navigate to Settings > System > Storage and activate Storage Sense by toggling the switch from Off to On. By enabling this feature, Windows continuously monitors your PC, eliminating obsolete junk files such as temporary files, untouched downloads in the folder for over a month, and the Recycle Bin.
To maximize Storage Sense’s benefits, you can customize its functionality and reclaim even more storage space. Locate and click “Configure Storage Sense ” below the Storage Sense option or run it now.” This action will open a screen allowing you to modify the frequency at which Storage Sense permanently removes files. Additionally, Storage Sense lets you specify the duration after which files in the Download folder should be deleted. It sets an automatic waiting period before eliminating files from the Recycle Bin. Moreover, suppose you haven’t accessed specific files within a designated timeframe (such as every day, every 14 days, 30 days, or 60 days). In that case, Storage Sense can seamlessly transfer them from your PC to Microsoft’s OneDrive cloud storage.
5. Run System Troubleshoot
Begin by clicking the Start button and initiating a search for “troubleshoot.” Windows will show you recommended troubleshooting utilities, allowing you to choose between automatic or manual options. Run additional troubleshooters such as Hardware & Devices and Windows Store Apps for thorough optimization. Access the Control Panel by clicking the Start button and typing “Control Panel.” Proceed to navigate to the System > Security > Security and Maintenance page. Click on Maintenance and initiate the process by selecting Start Maintenance. This task is automatically scheduled to run daily, but you can modify the designated time according to your preference.
Related: Signs That Indicate Your Computer Has A Virus
FAQs on How to Speed Up Your Computer for Free
To increase your PC speed, consider running regular system optimizations such as troubleshooting, turning off unnecessary startup programs, and keeping your software and drivers up to date.
To clear a slow computer, run system troubleshoots and perform regular maintenance tasks such as clearing temporary files and optimizing startup programs.
There are various reasons why your PC may be slow, such as insufficient RAM, excessive background processes, or a fragmented hard drive. Performing regular maintenance tasks and optimizing your computer’s resources can improve its speed and overall performance.
Conclusion: How to Speed Up Your Computer for Free
Optimizing the speed of your computer doesn’t have to cost anything. Take advantage of these simple and effective techniques to ensure smooth and efficient computing, allowing you to maximize productivity and enjoy a faster, more responsive experience on your computer.
