Barbara from Harrisbug, PA asks:
My PC is running much slower than usual. Is there something wrong? How do I get the processing speed back?
A slow computer can signal a number of problems. Here are a few steps to get the Mach back in your machine:
Diagnose the Problem: Run a diagnostic tool such as Soluto, Hiren’s BootCD or SIW. These tools will identify the source of your slowness so you can take action. Google is also a great resource for this. Type in your issue and see what Google finds!
Check for Viruses: Typically, a virus is not the problem, but if you don’t have antivirus software running already, you can download Microsoft Security Essentials software for no charge. Something you want to consider though, antivirus software may be the cause of your computer’s lethargy, so make sure the antivirus software you are running is fast.
Ensure all Software is Updated: Software updates include fixes and improvements. If you fall behind on updates, your programs may not be running as effectively as possible.
Delete Your Cookies: Web cookies are small text files that are stored on your computer’s browser directory or program data subfolders and allow your browser and websites to track your browsing sessions and save certain useful information, such as account names and passwords, for later retrieval. Getting rid of cookies can save space and increase speed. Go to Google and search for how to do this based on your operating system.
Reduce Web Page History: Internet Explorer stores an archive of all Web sites you have visited. If it gets too big, the browser will be slowed. Microsoft recommends keeping no more than a week’s worth of Web history.
Disable Unused Applications or Add-Ons: To disable add-ons, go to the Internet Explorer option Tools -> Manage Add-ons. Other browsers have similar configuration controls. Please see our previous blog on bloatware and how to get rid of it.
Defragment your Computer: You can find the tool in your Control Panel. Run it monthly for optimum speed.
Free up some Space: A disk that’s running out of space can slow Windows significantly. Run the Disk Cleanup tool to remove Internet cache files, clear the Recycling Bin and delete unused programs. You should also delete emails, photos and videos you no longer need. As a general rule, keep 10% of the disk space unused.
If you are still not able to get your speed back, call Teltek! Our certified engineers can inspect your machine and figure out what is getting in the way of optimum performance.
Teltek is proud to offer IT services as the fourth component to our multi-systems approach as your single source technology services company. This Managed Service Provider (MSP) offering completes our longstanding goal to provide our clients with a one-call resource for all of their business technology needs. IT outsourcing, remote back up and disaster recovery, helpdesk support, computer network relocations, security products and server/desktop virtualization are just a few of the services now available.