Computer Recipes

There are many ways to speed up computers and improve their performance, this article covers simple steps that anyone can follow. Implementing either of the first two steps in this article should take less than 15 minutes using a PC or Mac.

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. One of the main functions of the registry is to connect software, hardware and computer files. For this reason the registry is often referred to as the computer’s nervous system. Over time, errors occur and this slows down computers, frequently their registry become corrupted. Locating then fixing errors in the registry is therefore frequently required. Users could in theory attempt to cleanup the registry manually, however this method is not recommended as it requires deep knowledge of both the structure of the registry 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 fix computer registry 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. Often, this takes place when peer to peer (P2P) networks are used to download videos and music for example. A straightforward solution to improve the speed of any computer is to use an anti spyware or adware program to scan, remove then block adware and spyware. Before buying any anti spyware or adware software it is best to use the trial version which is often free. The overall effectiveness of the software is obviously the main feature to consider, however other features are also important such as Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service. 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 often damage files, can consume excessive amount of memory and take a large amount of space on the hard disk. In order to overcome these problems, as well as optimise performance, users should run the latest version of the best anti-virus programs. In the end, they will also be in a stronger 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.  Alternatively, stopping programs to launch automatically can also improve the performance of any computer. These straightforward tasks generally deliver 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 freed up space is an important factor of computer speed as it is used by temporary files which software require to work effectively. 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. Unless sufficient space on the hard disk is availble, the system slows down significantly in that event. Disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows can help check for errors on the hard disk. For instance, your hard disk may be large enough but too fragmented and some disk sectors may have been damaged. Running a defragmentation program is another step that can be completed to improve  the speed of any computer. 

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. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. Alternatively running certain programs simultaneously should also be avoided, this option is of course free.

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. To overcome this problem, installing a new fan is the best solution which will reduce the computer’s temperature by increasing the airflow and ultimately improve response time.

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