Table of Contents
|
|
Performance Issues
"My computer is running slow. What can I do to fix this?"
The Issue: It could be many different things slowing down your computer's performance, such as lack of disk space, disk fragmentation, the development of bad sectors, and so on. Read how you can optimize your computer performance by editing some of these areas.
The Fix 1: Clear your disk space on your hard drive by using the Disk Cleanup tool. The tool allows you to choose which files you want to delete, such as:
- Temporary Internet files
- Downloaded program files (such as Microsoft ActiveX controls and Java applets)
- The Recycle Bin
- Windows temporary files
- Optional Windows components you don't use
- Installed programs that you no longer use
To use the Disk Cleanup Tool, simply click Start, select All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then click Disk Cleanup. In the Disk Cleanup box, select each of the files you want to delete. Be sure to clear any of the boxes that you do not want to delete, and click on OK.
The Fix 2: Disk fragmentation also slows down performance. A disk fragment happens when the data of a file is spread across several sectors of the disk, which requires your computer to search longer to piece the data together. By performing a disk defragmentation, your computer will rearrange the files on the disk so they are stored closer together – thus, speeding up your access to the data.
To complete a disk defragmentation, click Start, select All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then click Disk Defragmenter. In the box that opens, click on the drives you want to defragment, and then click on the Analyze button. The Analyze option will let you know whether or not you should defragment the selected drive.
Once complete, Disk Defragmenter will display the results. You can see detailed information about the defragmentation by clicking on View Report.
The Fix 3: Find and fix disk errors by using the Error Checking utility. Your computer can obtain bad sectors, which basically slow down its performance. One of the main attributes of a bad sector is that it makes file saving difficult, if not impossible. The Error Checking utility can scan your computer for bad sectors and file system errors, and can determine if you have files or folders out of place.
Microsoft recommends running this once a week to prevent data loss (for people who use their computers daily).
Before you run this program, be sure to close all open files. Click Start, and then My Computer. In the My Computer window, right-click on the hard disk you want to search for bad sectors, and then click Properties. In the Properties box, click on the Tools tab, and click on the Check Now button.
In the Check Disk box that opens, you'll want to select the Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors check box, and then click Start. If any bad sectors are found, choose to fix them.
The Fix 4: Another common cause for slow performance is Spyware. Spyware secretly monitors users' behavior and stores personal information, without the user willingly agreeing to this. But it can also install additional software and even change computer settings, which can result in the user attracting harmful viruses.
A good rule of thumb is to run Spyware scans at least once every other month to ensure you are protecting yourself and your computer. There are plenty of free and commercial versions available on the Internet, but here are a few we recommend:
Hope this tips work for you. Stay tuned for more next month!
Still having trouble understanding this? Call the Technology Helpline, where we'll be happy to walk you through resolving any of these issues.
Copyright © 2008 Real Estate Industry Solutions LLC. All rights reserved
|