What to Do If Your Computer is Running Slow

A slow computer can waste time, reduce productivity, and cause frustration. Whether you’re experiencing lag, freezing, or long startup times, follow these troubleshooting steps to speed up your computer.

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📌 Step 1: Restart Your Computer

✔ Restarting clears temporary files and refreshes system resources.
✔ If your computer hasn’t been rebooted in several days, restart it now.
✔ If the issue persists, move on to the next steps.

✅ A simple reboot often fixes slow performance!

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📌 Step 2: Close Unnecessary Programs & Background Processes

Too many programs running at once can slow your system down.

How to Close Programs (Windows & Mac)

• Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, select unneeded apps, and click End Task.
• Mac: Press Command + Option + Escape, select apps, and click Force Quit.

✅ Freeing up memory speeds up performance instantly!

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📌 Step 3: Check for Low Storage Space

If your hard drive is almost full, your computer will slow down.

How to Check Available Storage

• Windows: Click Start > Settings > System > Storage.
• Mac: Click Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage.

How to Free Up Space

✔ Delete unnecessary files (old downloads, large videos).
✔ Empty the Recycle Bin / Trash.
✔ Use OneDrive or cloud storage to offload large files.

✅ Aim to keep at least 15-20% of your storage free!

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📌 Step 4: Disable Startup Programs

Too many startup programs slow down boot time and consume memory.

How to Disable Startup Programs

• Windows:
  1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Del).
  2. Click the Startup tab.
  3. Right-click unnecessary programs and click Disable.
• Mac:
  1. Go to System Settings > General > Login Items.
  2. Remove apps you don’t need at startup.

✅ This will make your computer start up faster!

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📌 Step 5: Run a Malware and Virus Scan

Malware and viruses can significantly slow down your system.

How to Scan for Malware

✔ Windows: Use Microsoft Defender (Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security).
✔ Mac: Use Malwarebytes or another trusted antivirus app.

✅ If malware is detected, remove it and restart your computer!

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📌 Step 6: Update Your Software & Drivers

✔ Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates.
✔ Mac: Click Apple Menu > System Settings > Software Update.
✔ Update device drivers (especially graphics, network, and storage drivers).

✅ Keeping your system updated improves performance and security!

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📌 Step 7: Adjust Performance Settings

Windows has built-in performance options that can speed up your system.

How to Adjust for Best Performance (Windows)

1. Open Control Panel and go to System > Advanced System Settings.
2. Click the Performance section > Settings.
3. Select Adjust for best performance.

✅ This disables unnecessary animations and visual effects for better speed!

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📌 Step 8: Upgrade Your Hardware (If Needed)

If your computer is still slow, consider upgrading:

✔ Add more RAM – Improves multitasking and responsiveness.
✔ Upgrade to an SSD – Makes boot-up and app loading much faster.
✔ Replace an old battery (laptops) – An aging battery can slow down performance.

✅ Hardware upgrades can dramatically improve speed!

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💡 Axio Networks Pro Tip

For business users, regular IT maintenance, software optimization, and security checks help prevent slow performance. Need expert IT support? Axio Networks provides managed IT solutions to keep your systems running efficiently—contact us today! 🚀