subject: How Can I Speed Up My Computer? [print this page] How Can I Speed Up My Computer? How Can I Speed Up My Computer?
I am often asked the question "why is my computer slower today that it was when I purchased it 3 years ago?". This question has many possible answers. I will address a few of the potential answers in this article.
What causes computers to slow down'?
1. Junk Software
I define junk software' as simply software that you don't need. This type of junk software can come from a variety of sources such as screensaver software, coupon software, websites, instant messaging, social networks, or emails to name a few. This software gets installed and runs in the background consuming your computer's resources and slowing things down. Computers that are 3 years old and have never been optimized by a professional are running much slower than their potential.
2. Software Updates
There is a contact unseen battle between hardware and software. When you purchased your computer 3 years ago, the hardware was well equipped to run all of the software that came with the computer. Over the years, your applications have likely had several software updates. Perhaps you have even installed some newer software since your computer purchase. New software is typically optimized to use the latest hardware technology. Since your computer is a few years old, it won't run your newer software as well as a new computer would. With software changing so rapidly, hardware always seems to few a few steps behind.
3. Virus Activity
Some viruses do annoyingly obvious things like make your CD-ROM drive open and close at random times, or change your background to something nasty. Other viruses sit quietly in the background and record your keystrokes, or send out mass emails right from your computer to promote the latest SPAM product. Any kind of virus is going to consume your computer resources and slow you down. Some of these viruses can put you at great risk for data or identity theft.
To recap, many different issues can slow down your computer. It is best to have your computer checked out by a professional to make sure you are running as quickly and safely as possible. Brian Vance is the President of PC TLC, Inc. a company that provides the best Indianapolis Computer Repair for small business and residential customers. If you are in need of Computer Repair in Indianapolis, click the links to learn how we can help you.