10 Effective Tips and Tricks to Overcome a Slow Computer or Laptop

Introduction

Computer or laptops are a very important electronic device for many people, used for various purposes from work, and study, or entertainment. A slow computer or laptop can greatly hinder our daily productivity. Don't worry; in this article, we will share some effective tips and tricks to resolve this issue.

Check Background Programs Delete Unnecessary Files and Programs Add More RAM Defragment the Hard Drive Use a Solid State Drive (SSD) Update Operating System and Drivers Disable Unnecessary Visual Effects Scan for Malware and Viruses Manage Startup Programs Perform Regular Maintenance Conclusion

Check Background Programs

Many programs running in the background can consume a lot of resources and slow down the computer. Example: Close unnecessary programs through Task Manager or System Preferences.

Windows OS Example

If you are a Windows OS user, please follow these instructions or you can follow this detail instruction:

1. Click [Windows button]
2. Type "Services"
3. Click [Services button], then you will see the services menu as shown in the image below.

   Next, in this menu, you just need to adjust the services according to your needs.

   

Linux OS Example

If you are a Linux OS user, follow these instructions or you can follow this detail instruction:

1. Open terminal
2. Check the running services.

   
   # use command "top or htop"
   [root@bizantum ~]# htop
   
   

   Then you will see the services menu as shown in the image below.

   
3. Stop unused services.

   
   # use pkill command: pkill [sevice-name]
   # use kill commad: kill [PID]
   [root@bizantum ~]# pkill nginx
   
   

Delete Unnecessary Files and Programs

Unused files and programs only occupy storage space and slow down the computer's performance. Example: Use Disk Cleanup on Windows or Storage Management on macOS to clean up these files.

Add More RAM

Adding RAM can help improve computer performance. Example: If your computer has an additional RAM slot, consider adding a new RAM module.

Defragment the Hard Drive

Defragmentation helps reorganize files on the hard drive so that the system can access data faster. Example: Use the Disk Defragmenter feature on Windows.

Use a Solid State Drive (SSD)

SSDs are faster compared to conventional hard drives. Example: Consider replacing the old hard drive with an SSD for a significant performance boost.

Update Operating System and Drivers

Operating system and driver updates often contain performance improvements. Example: Always check for system updates in Settings or System Preferences.

Disable Unnecessary Visual Effects

Visual effects can burden the computer's performance. Example: On Windows, disable visual effects through System Properties.

Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malware and viruses can slow down the computer. Example: Use a reputable antivirus to scan and remove malware.

Manage Startup Programs

Programs that automatically run at startup can slow down boot time. Example: Disable unnecessary programs through Task Manager on Windows or System Preferences on macOS.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps keep the computer running optimally. Example: Clean the dust inside the computer, especially around the cooling fans.

Conclusion

By applying the above tips and tricks, you can improve your computer or laptop's performance and get back to working more efficiently. Don't forget to perform regular maintenance to keep your computer in top condition.