Why Is My Computer So Slow? 9 Simple Fixes

If you are asking “why is my computer so slow,” the usual reasons are simple: it needs a restart, it is waiting on updates, too many things are open, or it is running out of space. Most of these you can fix yourself in a few minutes. For the rest, a pro can help.

You do not need to be good with computers to try these steps. Start at the top and work your way down. Each one is safe.

Easy slow computer fixes you can try today

Fix 1: Restart your computer

This is the simplest fix, and it often works. Over time, programs leave small bits of work behind. A restart clears it all out.

1. Save anything you are working on.
2. Click the Start button (the Windows symbol in the bottom corner).
3. Click the power icon.
4. Choose Restart, not Shut down.

Try to restart at least once a week.

Fix 2: Install updates

Updates are free improvements from the company that made your computer. They fix problems and help things run better.

On Windows:

1. Click the Start button.
2. Type Updates and click “Check for updates.”
3. If updates are waiting, click to install them.
4. Restart when it asks you to.

Updates can take a while. It is a good idea to do this when you do not need the computer for an hour.

Fix 3: Close extra browser tabs

Tabs are the little labels across the top of your web browser. Each one is a separate web page. Every open tab uses some of your computer’s power.

If you have 10 or 20 tabs open, close the ones you do not need. Click the small X on each tab. You can always open the page again later.

Fix 4: Close programs you are not using

Programs keep working even when you are not looking at them. Close any you are not using. Click the X in the top right corner of each window.

Fix 5: Uninstall programs you never use

Many computers come with extra programs you never asked for. Others pile up over the years. Some of them start up every time you turn on the computer, which slows it down.

On Windows:

1. Click the Start button and open Settings (the gear icon).
2. Click Apps.
3. Look through the list for programs you do not use.
4. Click the program, then click Uninstall.

Only remove programs you know you do not need. If you are not sure what something is, leave it alone. It is better to ask than to remove something important.

Fix 6: Free up storage space

Storage is where your computer keeps your photos, files, and programs. When it gets nearly full, everything slows down.

Here are a few safe ways to make room:

• Empty the Recycle Bin on your desktop. Right-click it and choose “Empty Recycle Bin.”
• Delete old downloads you no longer need. Look in your Downloads folder.
• Move photos and videos to a USB drive or other storage.
• On Windows, search for Disk Cleanup and let it remove temporary files. These are leftover files your computer no longer needs.

Fix 7: Check for viruses

Harmful programs, often called viruses, can run in the background and slow your computer down. On Windows, open Windows Security and run a “Quick scan.” If it finds something, follow its steps.

If you see pop-ups with a phone number asking you to call, do not call. That is a scam.

When the problem is bigger

Sometimes the simple fixes are not enough. These next two usually need some help.

Fix 8: Your computer may need more memory or a faster drive

Memory is the part that lets your computer work on several things at once. The drive is where everything is stored. Older computers often have less memory and slower drives. Upgrading one of these parts can make an older computer feel much faster. A pro can tell you if this makes sense for your computer, or if it is better to replace it.

Fix 9: Get a professional tune-up

A tune-up is a deeper cleaning for your computer. It goes beyond what most people can do at home. It can find hidden programs that start on their own, fix settings, and clear out problems that build up over time.

Our remote support plans include regular tune-ups, plus antivirus and a VPN (a tool that helps keep your internet connection private). Plans run from $29.99 to $99.99 a month. Family plans cover up to 5 devices.

Signs it is time to call a pro

• Your computer is still slow after trying the fixes above.
• It takes many minutes just to start up.
• It freezes, crashes, or makes strange noises.
• You see pop-ups or programs you did not install.
• You do not feel comfortable trying the steps yourself. That is completely okay.

When to call a pro

At AA Computer Help, we can find out what is slowing your computer down and fix it. You can choose what works best for you:

• In-home help. We come to you across Greater Hartford and 80+ Connecticut towns.
• Remote support. You start the session, you see everything we do, and you can end it anytime. We never call you unprompted.
• Mail-in repair. Send your computer to us and we will send it back running better.

We also offer computer tune-ups and repair from our home base at 430 New Park Ave in West Hartford. All work comes with a 30-day workmanship guarantee. We are open 7am to 11pm every day.

Call 203-340-4198 or book an appointment.

Frequently asked questions

Is it bad to leave my computer on all the time?

It is fine to leave it on, but it helps to restart it at least once a week. A restart clears out small problems that build up and slow things down.

Will deleting files make my computer faster?

It can help if your computer is almost full. Removing old downloads and emptying the Recycle Bin are safe places to start. Do not delete files if you are not sure what they are.

Should I buy a new computer or fix my old one?

It depends on the age and condition of your computer. Sometimes a cleanup or a new part is all it needs. A pro can look at it and give you an honest answer.