My computer is so slow. What can I do to speed it up?
Start by restarting it, which clears out a lot of clutter. Then install updates, close apps and browser tabs you aren't using, stop extra apps from opening at startup, and free up storage space. These free steps fix most slow computers.
Computers slow down for ordinary reasons. Too many apps run at once, many tabs fill up memory, the storage drive gets nearly full, and dozens of programs set themselves to start every time you turn it on. Restarting and trimming these usually makes a real difference.
Task Manager shows what is using your computer's power. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and sort by CPU or Memory. On a Mac, Activity Monitor does the same job. Skip paid cleaner apps and pop-ups promising a faster PC. Many are useless, and some are scams.
- Restart the computer, especially if it's been days since the last time
- Install updates in Settings, Windows Update
- Turn off apps you don't need in Settings, Apps, Startup
- Free up space in Settings, System, Storage, and empty the Recycle Bin
- Run a scan in Windows Security in case something unwanted is running
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Why Computers Get Slow
From the Keeping It Running course. What makes a computer slow down, and the simple fixes that help.