Businesses are increasingly reliant on computer productivity, yet very few users are able to optimize their computers and it is up to the IT department to take the lead in this area, bearing in mind that it is often the optimization of the simplest of tasks which will make the most difference to most users. This article describes simple steps that anyone can follow to rapidly speed up their computer. Implementing step 1 or step 2 should take no more than 15 minutes and will work for both PC and Mac users.

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The registry is similar to the nervous system of the computer and its function is to connect software hardware and computer files. Typically the computer registry becomes more prone to errors over time, is frequently corrupted, and this slows down the computer. A simple step is to locate then repair the errors in the registry. Cleaning the registry manually is possible but not recommended, as this method requires specific knowledge of the registry structure and its functions. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on compare registry fix software for more information.

Step 2 – Delete and block adware and spyware

Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. A simple solution to make any computer faster is to run an anti spyware or adware program to scan, remove then block these unwanted malware. Most anti spyware or adware software have a free trial version and it is worth using this first to try out the program. Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software are the main features to consider. The best software tend to be the simplest to use and rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.

Step 3 – Eliminate viruses

Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Computer viruses must be deleted for two reasons, firstly they often damage files, secondly they tend to waste memory and disk space. By running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs, users should overcome these problems and be in a better position to improve their computer performance.

Step 4 – Simple housekeeping tasks

There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed.  Another simple step to improve computer speed is to stop programs launching automatically. These simple tasks generally produce marginal improvements.

Step 5 – Optimise the Hard disk

For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. This free space is an important contributor of your computer speed as it is used by temporary files placed there by computer programs. This frees up space for the computer to swap files, which is used particularly when the operating system starts using virtual memory once it has run out of RAM. In that event, users can experience a reduction in speed, if too little space is available on the hard disk. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows help scan for errors on the hard disk itself. For instance, your hard disk may be large enough but too fragmented and some disk sectors may have been damaged. Running a defragmentation software is another useful step which will improve computer performance.

Step 6 – Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This adversely impacts the RAM available for other programs. Running out of RAM too fast is not uncommon and users who have this problem should consider upgrading the memory on their computer. Another free option is to avoid using some computer programs simultaneously.

Step 7 – Stop the computer from overheating

Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. Installing a new fan is the best solution to overcome this problem, as this increases the air flow through the computer thereby reducing the machine’s temperature and improving its performance.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster.

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