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Computer Running Slow Why

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Keeping your computer running at its best requires one to maintain all aspects of the computer, all the time. Besides being a cautious user, there are many other ways to keep your computer running fast, whether it is old or new. This does not require any upgrading of computer hardware, only maintaining everything within the operating system. The following applies mostly to Microsoft-based operating systems.

Assuming you already have adequate virus and spyware protection, run these applications on a regular basis. If you are running low on free memory and CPU usage, it would be a wise decision to use Microsoft's "msconfig" application, which is built into most operating systems by Microsoft. Clicking the start menu and selecting "run" can access this application. With the prompt window up, you just type in "msconfig" and you are ready to go. For Windows 2000 users, you will have to download this program from somewhere, just "google" it and you will find it easily. When the application pops up, click on the startup tab and uncheck all unnecessary programs that are scheduled to startup on every reboot. Doing this will ensure that no physical or virtual memory is wasted on services that are not a necessity at the present time.

A standard maintenance wouldn't be complete without a disk defragmentation. You will want to run a disk defragmentation once a month. Many people make the mistake of running the defragmentation in normal mode, but to get the best results, you will want to reboot in safe mode before running the application. In addition to running the disk defragmentation in safe mode, you might want to run the disk cleanup application as well. This program will eliminate temporary files, including temporary files from the Internet. There are programs out there such as "CleanUp!" that will remove temporary files more effectively. Running a program such as this will often free up a decent amount of space on your hard-drive as well. The best sequence to follow for a maintenance run of the computer would be to start out with a spyware scan and a virus scan. After those are complete, restart the computer in safe mode and run disk cleanup. When the disk cleanup is complete, you should then run the disk defragmentation, which usually takes the longest anyway. After all of those are complete you should be able to restart normally and be running topnotch. But if you are still running low on resources, then I suggest upgrading hardware and perhaps purchasing a stick of memory that fits best to you computer's specifications. Upgrading the processor is a much more difficult process and you would have to make sure of what your motherboard supports.

Keeping in mind that operating systems use different amounts of resources, so it is suggested to change that if it is an option for you. Desktop and folder setting can also play a role in how quick everything opens. It probably isn't too late to use Windows 98 for owners of older computers. You shouldn't have to be forced into using an operating system you do not wish to use, but it appears that day is coming soon.

Computer Running Slow Why

There are various ways to streamline computer performance and functionality. I will show you five very helpful methods that I have learned in the field to help keep your computer running great. Some are free but there are some which will require a small investment which is well worth the cost. This article is for Windows 2000/XP users only.

1. Cleanup your startup menu- This is perhaps the fastest way to improve overall performance and startup speed. To do this, go to the run command line in the start menu and type in msconfig. Please ONLY use the startup tab at the top!! Go through the list of startup programs and disable messengers, updaters, and applications that are not used at all times ie. (quick time task, winzip, Ituneshelper). The rule of thumb here is disable what you know you don't need and don't touch anything you do not understand or recognize, they are most likely drivers and system files.

2. Run a disk defragment- If you notice that your applications are taking a long time to load or are not running as smooth as your used to run a disk defragment. This will basically organize your hard drive to run more efficiently. To run, go to your start menu, program files, accessories, system tools, Disk Defragmenter. Click the analyze button to see if you need to defragment and if you do, click the defragment button. Please note, while running this utility you should not make any system changes including saving and deleting files, installing and/or uninstalling programs or moving files on your hard drive. It is best to just start it and let it run. It can take up to 5 hours depending on the size of the drive and the amount of fragmentation in the volume. This is easiest to start before you go to bed.

3. Use anti-virus- I can't stress this enough, if you are on the internet you need anti-virus. Not only will it protect you from attacks but it will actively scan any files you open and will stop most viruses BEFORE they infect you computer. You will have to purchase this for your computer and I have provided some helpful links to good anti-virus programs. These should be set to be running at all times through the settings of the anti-virus program and updated weekly if not daily.

4. Run spy-bot scans regularly- Spy bots are not the same as viruses. A virus is aimed to infect and deter your computer from running correctly. Spy bots can steal your information, passwords, logins, and are typically malicious in intent. I consider these more dangerous than viruses because they can literally steal your identity without you knowing it and open the door to automatically download viruses to your computer. I have also provided links for effective spy bot removal tools. These should be run twice a month.

5. Registry Cleaners- A little known tool for making a huge performance increase to your computer is running a registry cleaner regularly. Basically what these do is remove any unnecessary piece of your registry left behind from either updating your software, removing a program or deleting program directories. By doing this it will help your computer find the correct paths it needs to run the commands given to it and help avoid "confusion" by removing "broken pieces" in the registry.

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About Author

Both Michael Russell & Branden Dilorenzo are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Michael Russell has sinced written about articles on various topics from Celebrities, Dieting and Diabetes Treatment. Michael RussellYour Independent guide to . Michael Russell's top article generates over 2240000 views. to your Favourites.

Branden Dilorenzo has sinced written about articles on various topics from Computer Certification, Personal Desktop. I have professional IT experience in troubleshooting and maintaining Windows networks and workstations for over two years. I can setup networks small or large and create secure systems for wireless or LAN networks. My skill set is deep and I have a very. Branden Dilorenzo's top article generates over 12100 views. to your Favourites.

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