" Few annoyances can be more frustrating than a brand new $2000 PC that runs slower than the old 8086 gathering dust in the closet. "

User complaints are minimal when new PCs are rolled out. They start up quick, and programs seem to open in a snap.


But over time, users begin to notice that their system is slow or that it hangs up often. Most PC users do not realize that their computers are probably running a number of unnecessary programs in the background that tie up system resources and slow down the system. Few annoyances can be more frustrating than a brand new $2000 PC that runs slower than the old 8086 gathering dust in the closet.

Here are a few simple tricks and tips that can speed up lagging PCs. They're worthy of your try before decision of an upgrade of hardware.

• Scan for viruses
  The very first thing that I recommend doing is performing a thorough virus scan on the machine. Some viruses can severely degrade a machine's performance.


• Scan for Spyware
  Spyware (more than viruses) may be causing your computer to slow down since they hog system resources. Invest in a reliable anti-spyware program that can run concurrently with your anti-virus software. Use Windows Task Manager (Ctrl-Alt-Del) and the MS Configuration Utility (msconfig) and look for suspicious applications. Kill and remove non-valid processes.


• Disk Fragmentation
  As files are added, deleted or edited, the hard disk becomes increasingly fragmented. Retrieving fragmented files means that disk heads will have to move all over the hard disk in order to find the different fragments, and 'arrange' them in proper working order. Use the Defragmenter tool (in Start – Accessories – System Tools) to 'rearrange' your files' components into contiguous areas which will make it easier for the disk heads to find and retrieve them, thus increasing processing speed. You should also run a fragmentation check on your computer at regular intervals and defragment whenever necessary.


• Check and disable non-essential Windows Services
  To check which Windows services are running, go to "Administrative tools" in the Control Panel and double click on "Services". This will bring you to a window that will provide information on the enabled services on your computer. Disable those that you don't need and check if your computer is running better. Here is a tutorial of disabling non-essential Windows Services to gain efficiency.


• Remove programs from Start-up
  Most PC users do not realize that their computers are probably running a number of unnecessary programs in the background that tie up system resources and slow down the system. These programs usually load when Windows initially starts, and they can be prevented from doing so by deleting all the items in the Startup folder inside the Windows Start Menu. After doing this, try restarting Windows to see the effect. If you deleted any items from the Startup folder, there should be fewer applications running in the background. The remaining programs can be removed from the Windows startup process by opening each of them and shutting off the 'load on startup' option, usually found under an 'options' or 'preferences' menu. Programs will often setup the 'load on startup' feature automatically unless the option is deselected at some point during the installation process. If the computer had more than a few programs running in the background, this should significantly speed Windows start times and overall efficiency.

If your PC doesn't regain enough speed from the these steps, you need to consider mechanical issues. Malfunction of any mechanical parts will slow down a PC's performance.

• Overheating
  Check the computer's cooling fan; it may be clogged or malfunctioning which may lead to overheating of the processor. Check for obstruction of fan and ventilation slots. Your computer technician may be able to resolve clogging with a blast of compressed air and some cleaning. However, it may be best to replace the fan at the first sign of trouble.


• Bad RAM
  Check if the RAM chips are overheating. Turn the computer off, pull the plug and open the case. Make sure you're grounded and touch the edge of your RAM chips. If it is scalding hot, you may have a problem. One option would be to purchase and install a RAM fan that can be plugged into the motherboard. Another option is to buy RAM heat sinks that can help disperse heat.


• Hard Disk Failure
  A third potential problem is your hard disk reaching the end of its usable life, and starting to show signs of failure. Detecting a failing hard disk can be tricky because the early signs are subtle. Experienced computer professionals can often hear a change in the normal disk spin. After the disk deteriorates further, you'll see the system crawl to a standstill. Write processes will take a long time as the system tries to find good blocks to write to. If your system is slowing down, run scandsk or chkdsk (depending on your operating system) and check for bad sectors. If there are bad sectors, backup your data and have a replacement hard disk ready to take over.

If these mechanical checks still doesn't resolve the problem, you'd better pause here and ask a technician to look for other potential issues or problems or download a professional optimization tool.

Up to 30% improvement in overall PC performance. Tested by PC Magzine and WinBench the benchmark software. Boost up your PC in 2 minutes and get your slow PC running as new! Clear non-essential programs/services from start-up.