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    Tips & Tricks
    Beginner
    2 min read 6 stepsApril 9, 2026Verified April 2026

    7 Ways to Make a Slow Computer Faster

    Your computer does not need to be replaced — these fixes often make it feel brand new.

    At a Glance

    Category
    Tips & Tricks
    Difficulty
    Beginner
    Read Time
    2 min read
    Steps
    6
    Topics covered
    performance
    speed
    windows
    mac
    beginner

    In this guide (6 steps):

    1. 1.Restart your computer
    2. 2.Close programs you are not using
    3. 3.Disable startup programs
    4. 4.Free up disk space
    5. 5.Check for malware
    6. 6.Consider an SSD upgrade
    1

    Restart your computer

    ~15s
    This fixes more problems than you would expect. A proper restart clears temporary files and resets programs that may be stuck. Click Start > Power > Restart (not Shut Down and then turn on — Restart is slightly different and more thorough).
    2

    Close programs you are not using

    ~15s
    Every open program uses memory and processing power. Close browser tabs you are not reading. Quit applications you are not actively using. On Windows, press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager and see what is using the most resources.
    3

    Disable startup programs

    ~15s
    Many programs start automatically when your computer turns on, slowing down boot time. Windows: Ctrl+Shift+Esc > Startup Apps tab > right-click and disable programs you do not need at startup. Mac: System Settings > General > Login Items > remove unnecessary apps.
    4

    Free up disk space

    ~15s
    A nearly full hard drive slows everything down. Delete old downloads, empty the Recycle Bin/Trash, and uninstall programs you do not use. You should have at least 10-15% of your drive free.
    5

    Check for malware

    ~15s
    Malware running in the background can make your computer extremely slow. Windows: Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan. Mac: Consider installing Malwarebytes (free version) for a one-time scan.
    6

    Consider an SSD upgrade

    ~28s
    If your computer is more than 5 years old and has a traditional hard drive (not SSD), upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) is the single most impactful upgrade you can make. SSDs cost $30-60 for 500GB and make everything 5-10 times faster. A local computer shop can do the upgrade for you.

    Quick Tip

    If your computer is less than 3 years old and still slow after these steps, you may have too little RAM. 8GB is the minimum for comfortable use in 2026; 16GB is ideal.

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    Official Resources

    How-To GeekAARP Technology TipsTom's Guide — Tips

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