SpeedUp My Computer is a common request.
Typically we look for malware slowing down a computer but there are other issues that can have a big impact on performance.
SpeedUp My Computer by Cleaning Files
cCleaner is a useful tool to speed up your computer even if malware is not present. It optimizes your computer and removes unnecessary files and registry entries.
It’s sometimes useful to run this before your anti-virus scan since it will remove lots of temporary files which won’t have to be scanned.
Faster Computer
Is your computer running slow? As it gets older it collects unused files and settings which take up hard drive space making it slower and slower. CCleaner cleans up these files and makes it faster instantly.
SpeedUp My Computer by Upgrading Hardware
Overworked hardware can also be an issue where an older computer
got upgraded to the latest Operating System. In this scenario, you should consider upgrading memory, hard drive and or processor (CPU) depending on cost and the
In this scenario, you should consider upgrading memory, hard drive and or CPU depending on cost and the resource you need.
In general, a memory upgrade is useful. If you have very little space moving files to an external drive and/DVDs might be the answer.
If you are trying to get the last bit of speed out of your old computer consider a new CPU.
SpeedUp My Computer by Removing Malware
Usually, I can scan a client’s computer with a remote connection like TeamViewer.
On occasion, that’s not possible so the client has to bring the computer in or I have to go to the client’s site. Site visits are the most expensive for the client since they typically incur travel charges and higher hourly fees.
Virus Scan
Either way, we generally start out with a MalwareBytes scan. This can be problematic if the computer cannot access the web.
Local Computer Scan Without Access to the Web
If we come to the client then we have the software on removable media or have the means to download same.
We bring the anti-virus software to the disabled computer and kick off a scan.
Remote Computer Scan Without Access to the Web
In the case of a remote computer, we need the client to copy the software on removable media and insert into the slow one or need access to another computer on their network.
The former solution requires some technological skills and removable media. The latter assumes that some shares are accessible via their network.
Assuming we get the anti-virus software installed on the slow computer, we can begin our scan.
Computer Scan Results
Depending on what the anti-virus program finds we will schedule other scans like AdwCleaner, Avast Browser Cleanup, Junkware Removal, and Hitman Pro.
Occasionally, AdwCleaner may flag legitimate software so be careful what you allow it to remove. You can restore quarantined software as long as AdwCleaner is not removed so it’s best to leave it on the computer.
I like to Google the malware found and find put which anti-virus scans are required. A typical sequence for us is to use the following.
- Malware Bytes
- AdwCleaner
- HitMan Pro
Bleeping Computer is my favorite site for finding anti-virus solutions and downloads.
SpeedUp My Computer by Stopping Windows Search Service
Any number of programs want to use Windows search including Windows Explorer, Cortana and Outlook so you should be prepared to see prompts from these programs when you turn off Windows Search.
You can usually find services by clicking Start and typing “Services” in
the search bar. Click on the Services program.
Scroll down until you find Windows Search and stop the service. Switch the Startup type to disabled.