Slow Computer Performance

Has your computer been running slow? Slow computer performance can be caused by many factors:

  • Temp and junk files clogging the hard drive
  • Programs running in the background that don’t need to be
  • Spyware and Malware
  • Programs with corrupt files
  • Fragmented disk
  • Not enough memory
  • Faulty hardware




Temp Files

Temp files are created by Windows when you open a file through an application such as MS Word as well as copies of everything you have viewed on the internet. This includes all the websites you may have visited. If you are a heavy internet user, you may want to delete the temp files often.

To cleanup the temp files in Windows XP:

  • Click “Start” > “All Programs” > “Accessories” > “System Tools” > “Disk Cleanup” – put a check mark in all of the options and click “OK” > “yes”
  • Download the free version of "Cleanup!" , install and run.

Fragmented Disk

Over time, the information in your computer gets spread throughout your hard drive (fragmented) which contributes to slow computer performance. By defragging your computer, it will organize the data by sequenced order at the front of the disk making it easier and faster for Windows to find related data. This step will keep your computer running faster. An extremely fragmented disk can cause Windows (any version) to freeze or even inadvertently shut down.

How To Start A Disk Defrag

To start a “disk defrag” on your computer, close all programs on your computer. Left click on your “Start” button in the lower left hand corner of your screen. Then click on “All Programs” > “Accessories” > “System Tools” > “Disk Defragmenter”. After disk defragmenter starts up, choose the “C drive” and click “Ok”. This process could take several hours depending on how fragmented your hard drive is. When defragging is complete it is a good practice to reboot the computer before continuing your task.

Not Enough Memory RAM

RAM (Random Access Memory) is pretty much where everything that is running on your computer is loaded into, starting with the operating system (Windows). For each Windows operating system there is an absolute minimum to run the program. We have suggested minimums and highly suggested average memory amount that should be used for each version of Windows based on many years of field experience. For the fastest operation possible you should put the maximum amount of memory at the highest speed type possible for your “Mother” or “System” board. Sometimes not enough memory can cause slow computer performance or freeze ups when multiple applications are open or running.

Here are Microsoft’s minimum recommendations for their operating systems:

Here are our minimum recommendations if you want a smooth running PC:

  • Windows 98Se = 128Mb
  • Windows 2000 = 256Mb
  • Windows XP with SP (service pack 2) = 1Gig

To find out the amount of memory currently in your computer, right click on “My Computer,” and then click on properties. Another way to speed your computer up is to close all programs not in use. Slow computer performance will increase for each program that you are running simultaneously (multi-tasking).

Let’s say you don’t have enough memory. You probably will want to purchase some. You will need the model number of your computer in order to get the correct memory. If you have difficulty installing the memory or buying the right kind, you can give ROZtech Computer Services a call to help you.


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