5 reasons your computer is slow (and what to do)

1. It still has a spinning hard drive

If your computer is more than about 5 years old, it may still use a mechanical hard drive. Swapping it for an SSD is the single biggest speed-up you can buy. A 10-minute boot often drops to under 20 seconds.

2. Too many programs start with it

Open Task Manager → Startup apps and turn off anything you don't need running all the time.

3. Not enough memory

With lots of browser tabs open, 8 GB of RAM fills up fast. Many laptops and most desktops can be upgraded cheaply.

4. Malware or "helper" software

Toolbars, fake "PC cleaners" and adware all slow things down. If pop-ups appear that you didn't ask for, get it checked.

5. It's overheating

Dust-clogged fans make the processor slow itself down to stay cool. A clean-out and fresh thermal paste can make an old machine feel new.

If you'd like a straight answer on whether it's worth fixing, send me a message.