Computer Running Slow? 10 Quick Fixes

Quick Fix

Restart your computer – this clears memory and closes background processes. Then open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end any programs using high CPU or memory that you don’t need.

Understanding Why Computers Slow Down

A slow computer can make every task frustrating. Common causes include too many startup programs, insufficient RAM, nearly full hard drive, malware, or outdated hardware trying to run modern software.

The good news is that most slowdowns can be fixed without buying new hardware. Software bloat, background processes, and poor maintenance are usually the culprits.

These fixes work for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight differences in menu locations.

Method 1: Restart Your Computer

1. Save any open work
2. Click Start > Power > Restart
3. Wait for complete restart (not shutdown/start)
4. Restart clears RAM and resets processes
5. Don’t just close the lid on laptops
6. Test performance after restart

Method 2: Close Unnecessary Programs

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc for Task Manager
2. Click More details if needed
3. Sort by CPU or Memory usage
4. Right-click programs you don’t need > End task
5. Be careful not to close system processes
6. Close browser tabs – each uses memory

Method 3: Disable Startup Programs

1. Open Task Manager
2. Click the Startup tab
3. See which programs have High impact
4. Right-click unnecessary programs > Disable
5. Keep antivirus and essential programs enabled
6. Restart to see the difference

Method 4: Free Up Disk Space

1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer
2. Check C: drive – if nearly full, that’s a problem
3. Run Disk Cleanup: search “Disk Cleanup” in Start
4. Select your system drive
5. Check boxes for files to delete
6. Click Clean up system files for more options
7. Empty Recycle Bin

Method 5: Scan for Malware

1. Open Windows Security from Start menu
2. Click Virus & threat protection
3. Click Quick scan or Full scan
4. Remove any threats found
5. Consider running Malwarebytes for second opinion
6. Malware often runs background processes

Method 6: Adjust Visual Effects

1. Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl
2. Click Advanced tab > Performance Settings
3. Select Adjust for best performance
4. Or manually uncheck animations you don’t need
5. Click OK
6. This reduces GPU/CPU load from visual effects

Method 7: Update Windows and Drivers

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update
2. Click Check for updates
3. Install all available updates
4. Also update graphics drivers from manufacturer
5. Outdated drivers can cause performance issues
6. Restart after updates

Method 8: Upgrade to SSD

1. If you have a traditional hard drive (HDD), this is the biggest upgrade
2. SSDs are 5-10x faster than HDDs
3. Clone your existing drive to the SSD
4. Or do a fresh Windows install on SSD
5. Boot times and app loading improve dramatically
6. SSDs are now affordable at around $50-100 for 500GB

Preventing Future Slowdowns

• Restart your computer at least weekly
• Keep at least 15-20% of your drive free
• Uninstall programs you don’t use
• Run antivirus scans regularly
• Be selective about what programs run at startup

FAQ

How much RAM do I need?

8GB is minimum for modern use. 16GB is recommended for multitasking. Check your RAM in Task Manager > Performance. If constantly at 90%+, you need more.

Why is my new computer slow?

New computers often come with bloatware – pre-installed programs you don’t need. Uninstall manufacturer apps and trials. Also check for Windows updates.

Will adding RAM help?

If your RAM usage is consistently high (check Task Manager), yes. If you have free RAM and computer is still slow, the issue is elsewhere (likely hard drive or CPU).

Should I defragment my drive?

Only if you have an HDD. Never defragment an SSD – it reduces lifespan. Windows automatically optimizes drives, but you can check in “Defragment and Optimize Drives.”

Is my computer too old?

If it’s 7+ years old, hardware may struggle with modern software. However, adding an SSD and RAM can extend useful life by several years for basic tasks.

Why does my computer slow down over time?

Accumulated programs, startup items, updates, and file fragmentation cause gradual slowdown. Regular maintenance prevents this. A yearly “spring cleaning” helps.