How to Speed Up Your Computer

Does your computer seem to be running slower than normal? Do you find yourself waiting for extended periods of time just to boot up a few programs? If so, there are several simple ways for you to improve the overall performance speed of your computer. While a slowly operating computer may be indicative of more serious problems that require the assistance of a professional, these easy tips may be all you need to get your computer back to optimal operating speed.

First of all, a slowly operating system may be the result of an over-packed computer. In other words, your collection of music files, photos and massive word document reports may actually be slowing down your beloved computer. All computers are constructed with a limited amount of memory space and whenever this memory space is approached, even the best of operating systems tend to run more slowly. To remedy this problem, consider purchasing an external hard drive to store all of the photos, music and documents that you want to preserve but do not immediately need to retain on your computer. If you simply want to clear up space from your photo files, then burning your images onto CDs or DVDs may be a viable option. Finally, try using Dropbox, Wuala or Spideroak as free online file storage options. Accessible from any computer at any time, these online options are a great way to preserve your files without bogging down your own computer.

Secondly, make sure that your computer is virus-free. Even the best protected computers can be influenced by potent computer viruses that will most certainly slow down your computer. Run a free virus scan through a reliable program such as Avira and eradicate any viruses or potential threats to your system. Additionally, be sure that your computer has appropriately established firewalls and other virus protection software installed to ensure your safety against further threats. (Again, while a computer is never virus-proof, installing protection is still a good way to minimize your computer's susceptibility.)

If your computer is still not up to speed, clean up any unused or unnecessary startups. You should also clear off any unused items from your desktop; all of these will slow down your computer's initial starting-up speed. Finally, consider decompressing the files/materials that are still on your computer. This is a free process provided for by most operating systems, and it should allow your computer to run quicker and have more available free space.