subject: It Isn't Always A Virus Or Registry Corruption That Causes A Slow Running Computer [print this page] There are many things that can get into our computer and cause problems. There are other things that cause problems that don't actually enter into our computers from outside sources. These problems are sort of computer self-inflicted wounds. Often computers lose speed and performance due to either the wrong things entering our computers, or those self inflicted wounds. This article examines all these computer speed and performance enemies, including one that often goes overlooked.
One problem every computer owner has to look out for is registry corruption. Registry corruption can cause a computer to run lose speed, have errors popup and maybe even crash altogether. Registry corruption is a more widespread problem now than it used to be because larger operating systems, such as Window XP and Vista have a tougher time working around it than smaller OS do.
Malware, like viruses, adware, and spyware are also harmful to an operating system. These undesirables can also be harmful to your personal finances because they can find out what your bank account numbers are. So, it is an understatement to say spyware is a danger to more than just your computer!
The One Often Overlooked
Sometimes a computer is brought to my shop because his or her computer has lost its speed. However, after checking for Spyware, viruses and corruption in the registry, I find none. For such a computer, I realize the problem slowing it down is something other than the usual suspects. This "something other" is a problem is one that is not new to the world of PC's, but it is very often overlooked. This is probably because fixing it has always been a bit tricky.
The problem I am referring to is a defective or outdated device driver. In the past it was very difficult to repair a computer that had a device driver problem. This is because not only did you have to find the problem driver, you then had to track down a replacement for it, then install this replacement. All this could take hours; at least!
Now, Just Use a Driver Scanner
Today, we just use a driver scanner and you can, too. The driver scanner finds the offending driver, tracks down a new one and replaces it. It does all this very quickly. It used to be if there were several problem drivers in a computer it was an especially difficult job to complete satisfactorily. Driver scanners however, are unfazed by a computer with more than one problem driver.
So, when your computer isn't acting like the speed burner it once was, make sure you use your virus cleaner. Also, get a free scan with a spyware cleaner if you don't already have a driver scanner installed on your computer. This will tell you if the virus cleaner has missed something. I find virus and spyware scanners' jobs overlap, but most don't do a thorough cleaning in the others field of expertise. In any event, also use a registry cleaner to rid your PC of any corruption, then if you still don't have your computer back on its feet, it's time to bring in the incredible driver scanner.
