Why Is My Computer Running Slow?
A comprehensive troubleshooting guide to diagnose and fix slow computer performance. Follow our step-by-step solutions or get professional help in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Quick Performance Check
How long has your computer been running slow?
Just Started Today
Likely a temporary issue. Try restarting and checking for running updates.
Past Few Weeks
Could be accumulated junk files or new software causing issues.
Months or Longer
Likely needs professional optimization or hardware evaluation.
Most Common Causes & Solutions
Understanding why your computer is slow is the first step to fixing it.
Too Many Startup Programs
Programs that automatically start when Windows boots can significantly slow down your computer.
DIY Solution:
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, click the Startup tab, and disable programs you don't need at startup.
Full Hard Drive
When your hard drive is over 90% full, Windows struggles to manage files and virtual memory.
DIY Solution:
Use Disk Cleanup (search for it in Start menu) to remove temporary files. Uninstall programs you don't use through Control Panel.
Outdated or Missing Drivers
Old drivers can cause performance issues and compatibility problems with Windows.
DIY Solution:
Right-click Start button, select Device Manager, look for yellow warning signs, and update drivers by right-clicking devices.
Browser Overload
Too many browser tabs and extensions can consume excessive memory and slow down your entire system.
DIY Solution:
Close unused tabs, remove unnecessary browser extensions, and consider using a bookmark manager instead of keeping tabs open.
Malware or Virus Infection
Viruses and malware consume system resources and can severely impact performance.
DIY Solution:
Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or your antivirus software. Boot into Safe Mode if the system is too slow.
5 Quick Fixes to Try Right Now
Follow these steps in order for the best chance of fixing your slow computer.
Restart Your Computer
2 minutesA simple restart clears temporary files and resets running processes. If you haven't restarted in days, do this first.
Check Task Manager
5 minutesPress Ctrl+Shift+Esc, click the Processes tab, and sort by CPU or Memory to identify resource-hogging programs.
Run Disk Cleanup
10 minutesType 'Disk Cleanup' in the Start menu, select your main drive, check all boxes except Downloads, and click OK.
Disable Visual Effects
2 minutesRight-click This PC, select Properties > Advanced System Settings > Performance Settings, and choose 'Adjust for best performance'.
Check for Malware
15-30 minutesOpen Windows Security from Start menu, select Virus & threat protection, and run a Quick scan. Run Full scan if issues persist.
When to Call a Professional
Some issues require professional diagnosis and tools. Call us if you experience:
Prevent Future Slowdowns
Regular Maintenance
Run Disk Cleanup monthly and keep 15% of drive free.
Limit Startup Programs
Only allow essential programs to start with Windows.
Use Antivirus
Keep real-time protection enabled and run weekly scans.
Update Regularly
Install Windows updates and driver updates monthly.
Restart Weekly
Restart at least once a week to clear temporary files.
Manage Browser Tabs
Close unused tabs and limit browser extensions.
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