Top 7 Tips to Speed Up Your Slow Computer Today

Is your computer running slower than it used to? A sluggish PC or laptop not only hampers your productivity but can also cause frustration and wasted time. Fortunately, most slowdowns can be fixed or improved with a few straightforward steps — no need to rush out and buy a new machine just yet.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven proven tips to speed up your computer, so it feels fresh and responsive again.

1. Restart Your Computer Regularly

While it might sound basic, simply restarting your PC or Mac can work wonders. Restarting clears temporary files, stops unnecessary background processes, and refreshes your system’s resources.

Aim to reboot at least once a day if you use your computer extensively.

2. Manage Startup Programs

Many applications start automatically when your computer boots up, which slows down startup time and consumes memory. Managing these startup programs can improve performance immediately.

On Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and select the Startup tab to disable unnecessary apps.
On Mac, go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items.

Be cautious when disabling programs — some are essential for system functionality.

3. Clean Up Unnecessary Files

Accumulated junk files take up valuable disk space, especially on smaller SSDs, which can slow down your system.

Use built-in utilities like Disk Cleanup on Windows or Storage Management on Mac.
Manually clear out downloads, old documents, and duplicates.
Consider uninstalling programs you no longer use.

4. Run Antivirus and Malware Scans

Malware infections can stealthily degrade your system’s responsiveness. Running a comprehensive antivirus scan can detect and remove threats that you may not be aware of.

Ensure your antivirus software is updated.
Consider using additional malware removal tools for thorough cleaning.

5. Update Software and Drivers

Outdated operating systems, software, and drivers can cause compatibility issues and bugs that slow down your computer.

Regularly check for OS updates.
Update drivers, especially for graphics and chipset.
Keep your applications up to date for optimal performance and security.

6. Add More RAM or Upgrade to an SSD

Sometimes the best way to speed up your computer is through hardware upgrades:

Add RAM: More memory allows your computer to run multiple programs smoothly.
Switch to SSD: Upgrading from a traditional hard drive to a Solid-State Drive can drastically improve boot times and file access speeds.

If you’re unsure which upgrade suits your computer, consult a professional.

7. Optimize Your Computer’s Performance Settings

Both Windows and Mac offer settings designed to maximize performance:

On Windows, adjust Visual Effects for best performance (Control Panel > System > Advanced system settings).
On Mac, close unused tabs and quit background apps that hog resources.

Bonus Tip: Backup Your Data Regularly

A fast computer is useless if you risk losing your important files. Whether your slowdown is a sign of impending hardware failure or malware infection, always keep your data backed up — either to the cloud or an external drive.

If after trying these tips your computer is still slow or shows signs of deeper issues, professional help can make all the difference. At Will Fixit Solutions in Mount Pleasant, SC, we specialize in fast, affordable computer repair and comprehensive IT support. From optimizing your system to hardware upgrades and data recovery, we’re here to get your technology running at peak performance.

Contact us today to schedule a diagnostic or house call and experience expert service with a personal touch!

Top 7 Tips to Speed Up Your Slow Computer Today