Quick Ways to Speed Up Your Computer

Speed is a key priority for us in many different areas of life, and it's often very important for computers and related devices. And while there are some cases where a slow computer is due to damage or other concerns that need professional assistance or even a full-on replacement, there are others where some simple approaches can go a long way toward speeding up a lagging device.

At PC Laptops, we're proud to offer a variety of both desktop and laptop repair services for any of our devices, including assistance with speed-related needs. What are some simple approaches that will often help speed up a lagging computer, whether you're trying them on your own or coming to our team of experts for assistance? Here's a simple primer.

Closing Background Programs

One of the simplest and most straightforward ways to free up some of the processor's power is by closing down background programs. This includes tasks running in the system tray and behind-the-scenes services, such as anti-virus software or Windows Update features that are downloading files in the background without your permission.

If you're not actively using these programs at a particular time, it can pay off to let them go and free up some of that processing power for the task you actually need it for. In many cases, such as with Windows Update, it's possible to control when and how often these processes run.

Updating Drivers

Another simple approach that can go a long way is making sure your drivers are up-to-date. The hardware you have in your system needs specialized instructions, known as drivers, in order to interact with the operating system correctly. If they're out of date, they might be causing slowdowns and other issues.

It's usually easy to get these drivers from the manufacturer's website, and in many cases newer versions are designed to improve performance and resolve speed-related concerns. Updating your device's drivers is one of the simplest steps to take when it comes to speeding up a slow computer.

Clearing Up

In other cases, the issue is simply that there's not enough free space left on your device. Even if you have plenty of RAM, a hard drive without much free space can contribute to slowdowns as the processor has to work harder to find what it needs.

Take some time to look through your various folders and delete or move any files or programs that you don't need. You can also use your computer's built-in disk cleaning tools to free up some space in a jiffy.

Regular Software Updates

Software is another major factor in your computer's speed. Regularly updating programs such as web browsers, office suites, and other applications can help keep the device running smoothly and prevent slowdowns caused by compatibility issues or outdated features.

In most cases, these updates will automatically prompt you to install them, but you can also check the programs manually and look for available updates.

Ensure Anti-Virus and Malware Software

Certain outside risks may also threaten your computer's speed. Keeping anti-virus and malware software up to date is essential for safeguarding your device from malicious threats, and it can also help prevent them from bogging down performance.

Make sure you're running the latest virus definitions and updating the program whenever necessary. You may also want to scan your system periodically with a third-party anti-virus tool to make sure nothing is slipping through the cracks.

Consider a Professional Tune-Up

In other cases, such as if there's a problem with your operating system or other core components, it may be necessary to take your computer into a professional for a tune-up. This can help identify and address any deeper issues that could be slowing down your device, such as corrupted data or hardware problems.

Certain Irreparable Issues

Finally, while we all wish it were not the case, there are some rare occasions where the issue with your computer may be irreparable. In some cases, the hardware may be too outdated to support newer versions of software or certain tasks, or there could be a deeper problem with the device's wiring or components that can't be easily fixed. If this is the case, it's often best to look into getting a newer device that can handle the tasks and programs you need it to.

At PC Laptops, we offer comprehensive repair services for both desktop and laptop computers for Layton clients. Our team is standing by to help you get the best out of your device, no matter if it's a system overhaul that's needed or something more minor. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.