How to Analyze a Slow Computer
Due to the passage of time and the addition of files and programs, your computer may be running much slower than when you first unpacked it and powered it up. A sluggish computer may exhibit many symptoms, such as slow loading times, excessive hard drive activity and system errors. The causes of a slow computer may be difficult to diagnose. Determining the problem can be achieved with the process of elimination and the diagnosis of both software and hardware.1 – Check the number of programs and processes that are running. Right-click on your task tray and select “Task Manager” from the menu. Click the tab “Processes.” Inspect the list for programs that require excessive CPU power. Video and photo-editing software programs require large amounts of CPU activity; close these tasks to help restore your computer’s speed.
2 – Check to see how much RAM you’re using by going to the Control Panel, clicking “System and Maintenance” and then “System.” Newer operating systems and programs require more RAM than older software. Check the minimum recommended requirement for your operating system to determine if your computer has sufficient RAM.
3 – Check your hard drive space. A full or nearly full hard drive will work harder, and therefore slower. Open the “Computer” folder and right-click on the “C” drive. Select “Properties” to view the available disk space.
4 – Check your hard drive and defragment, if necessary. Go to “All Programs,” then “Accessories,” then “System Tools” and click “Disk Defragment.” This utility will analyze your hard drive and inform you if a defragmentation is necessary.
5 – Check the age of your computer. Hardware components age rapidly. Processors are not easily replaced, so if you are very concerned about speed, purchase a newer computer.
6 – Check the display settings for your operating system. Fancy features such as Window Aero and other graphics-card-taxing programs will adversely affect computer performance. Right-click on “Computer” and select “Properties.” Click “Advanced System Settings,” select the tab “Settings” under the section “Performance,” and click the “Adjust for best performance.” Click “OK.”
7 – Check for unwanted programs. Spyware and malware feed on your computer’s resources as they monitor your activities and send information through the Internet. Scan your computer for tracking cookies, adware, spyware, and malware regularly.
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