Top 7 Tips to Speed Up a Slow Computer in 2024

Introduction

Few frustrations compare to a computer that drags along every time you need it most. Whether you're at work, doing homework, or simply streaming your favorite shows, a slow computer can throw off your whole day. Fortunately, many common causes of sluggish performance can be fixed with simple adjustments or routine maintenance.

In this article, we’ll share seven practical tips to speed up your slow computer in 2024 — helping you get back to smooth, responsive performance.

1. Restart Your Computer Regularly

It might sound basic, but many users leave their computers running for days or even weeks without restarting. This can cause temporary files and background processes to build up, taxing your system.

• Restarting clears out your RAM (memory) and stops unnecessary tasks.
• Aim to restart at least once every day or two, especially if you notice lag.

2. Remove Unnecessary Startup Programs

Many programs launch automatically when you start your computer, slowing down boot times and consuming resources.

• On Windows, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) > Startup tab, and disable programs you don’t need immediately.
• On macOS, go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items and remove unneeded apps.

Remember, disabling doesn’t uninstall the program — it just prevents it from running right away.

3. Update Your Operating System and Drivers

Software updates often include important performance improvements and bug fixes:

• Keep your OS updated (Windows Update or macOS Software Update).
• Update drivers, especially for graphics cards, network adapters, and peripherals.

Regular updates help ensure your system runs efficiently and securely.

4. Clean Up Hard Drive Space

A full or nearly-full drive can seriously impact speed. Here’s how to reclaim space:

• Delete unneeded files or transfer photos/videos to an external drive.
• Use built-in cleanup tools: Disk Cleanup on Windows or Optimize Storage on macOS.
• Uninstall apps you rarely use.

Aim to keep at least 10-20% of your drive free to allow your system to operate smoothly.

5. Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malicious software can slow your computer drastically and cause other serious problems:

• Run a trusted antivirus scan regularly.
• Use anti-malware tools like Malwarebytes to catch hidden threats.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown files.

Keeping your system malware-free is crucial for optimal performance.

6. Upgrade Your Hardware (If Necessary)

Sometimes software fixes aren’t enough, especially for older machines. Consider:

• Adding more RAM to enable your computer to handle more tasks simultaneously.
• Replacing a traditional hard drive with a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster boot and load times.

Many older computers become much more usable after these upgrades.

7. Regular Maintenance and Professional Tune-Ups

Routine maintenance keeps your computer operating well over time:

• Clear browser caches and cookies.
• Defragment your hard drive regularly (if using HDD, not necessary with SSD).
• Keep your computer physically clean to avoid overheating.

If you’re unsure or the performance issues persist, professional diagnostics can identify deeper problems.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your computer starts slowing down, but most issues are fixable with a bit of care and attention. Implementing these seven tips can provide noticeable improvements in speed and responsiveness.

If you find the process daunting or want to ensure your computer stays in prime condition, the experts at Will Fixit Solutions in Mount Pleasant, SC, are here to help. Whether it’s a quick tune-up, malware removal, or hardware upgrade, our friendly and experienced team has you covered.

Don’t let a slow computer hold you back—contact Will Fixit Solutions today and get the performance you deserve!