Fixing a Slow PC

Step-by-Step Guide

Overview

Is your PC taking forever to load programs or freezing during simple tasks? A slow computer is often caused by cluttered files, too many startup programs, or outdated software. This guide walks you through easy steps to speed things up, no tech expertise required.

Step 1: Clear Junk Files

Temporary files, browser caches, and old downloads can pile up and slow your PC. Windows has a built-in tool called Disk Cleanup to remove them safely.

Open Disk Cleanup: Press the Windows key, type “Disk Cleanup,” and select it.
Choose your main drive (usually C:). It’ll scan for unneeded files.
Check boxes like “Temporary files,” “Recycle Bin,” and “Thumbnails.” Review the list to avoid deleting important files.
Click “OK” and then “Delete Files” to clean up.

Note: For deeper cleaning, consider CCleaner (use the free version), but always double-check what you’re deleting.

Step 2: Manage Startup Programs

Some programs automatically launch when you start your PC, slowing down boot time and hogging resources. You can disable unnecessary ones to improve performance.

Open Task Manager: Right-click the taskbar and select “Task Manager” or press Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
Click the “Startup” tab (or “Startup Apps” in Windows 11). You’ll see a list of programs and their “Startup impact” (Low, Medium, High).
Select programs with “High” or “Medium” impact that you don’t need at startup (e.g., Spotify, Adobe Reader). Click “Disable” or right-click and choose “Disable.”
Restart your PC to see the difference.

Tip: Don’t disable antivirus software or Windows services. If unsure, leave it enabled.

Step 3: Update Your System

Outdated Windows versions or drivers can cause slowdowns. Keeping your system updated ensures better performance and security.

Open Settings: Press Windows + I or search for “Settings” in the Start menu.
Go to “Windows Update” (or “Update & Security” in older versions) and click “Check for updates.”
Install any available updates, including optional driver updates. Restart your PC if prompted.
For graphics drivers, visit NVIDIA or AMD for the latest versions.

When to Seek Help

If your PC is still slow after these steps, it might have deeper issues like malware, failing hardware, or a need for an SSD upgrade. Contact Xtremery in DeLand, FL for expert diagnosis and repair. We’ll get your PC running like new!