How to Optimize your Windows PC

How to Optimize your Windows PC

Having a slow PC can get in the way of your productivity. If you are experiencing issues with your PC speed, check out these steps on optimizing your Windows PC:

1. Use the Performance troubleshooter
   Use the Performance Troubleshooter to check various issues that your computer might be having. Using the Performance trooubleshooter, check factors like number of users logged in and programs running in the background.

2. Uninstall unused program
   Regularly uninstall any programs that you don’t use. Make sure to check both manufacturer-installed software and software that you installed, but don’t actually use.

3. Defragment your hard disk
   In simple words, Fragmentation makes your disk do unnecessary work that it doesn’t need – thus, slowing down your computer. Regularly Defragment your hard disk to make sure that it is working practically and efficiently.

4. Get rid of unnecessary files
   Keeping unnecessary files will take up space and slow down your computer. Clean up your hard disk by deleting unnecessary files and emptying your recycle bin. If you have many files that you can’t delete, you can use online storage systems like Google Drive.

5. Don’t run too many programs at once
   Having multiple programs open all at once will definitely make your computer slower. After using the program, shut it down so that it uses less of your computer’s performance power.Also, make sure that you only have one antivirus program running. Having more than one not only slows down your PC’s performance, but it is also unnecessary.

6. Turn off visual effects
   If your PC is running slow, you can try turning off the various visual effects you have switched on.

7. Restart your PC every now and then
   You will need to restart your PC at least once a week, especially if you use it a lot. This will clear up its’ memory, and is a good way to shut down any programs running in the background.

8. Add more Random Access Memory
   A basic way to boost up your PC speed is to add more Random Access Memory (RAM). 

   2 gigabyte (GB) of RAM is enough to run your Windows PC, but if you want it to process faster, you may opt to upgrade that to 4GB. If you like to do heavier tasks with your PC, an 8GB RAM may be what you need.

9. Check for viruses and spyware
   PCs infected with viruses and spyware will run slower. Although it is a rare chance for your PC to be infected with a virus or spyware, it wouldn’t hurt to scan your PC with your antivirus software. 

   The best way to deal with viruses is to prevent them in the first place. Always run antivirus software and keep it up to date. Avoid opening suspicious attachments or downloading files from untrusted sites.

10. Check your computer’s speed
    If you have done all of these tips and your PC and it is still running slowly, it may be because you need to purchase additional hardware to increase your computer’s speed. Windows has a tool called Windows Experience Index which you can use to check and rate your PC’s speed. 

    The Windows Experience Index rates your computer on five key components and gives you a number for each, as well as an overall base score. This base score is only as good as your worst-performing component subscore. Base scores currently range from 1 to 7.9. If your PC is rated lower than 2 or 3, it might be time to consider a new PC, depending on what tasks you want to do with your computer.