Need A Computer System Cleanup? What Slows Down a Computer?

Summary: Sometimes, a system cleanup is all it takes to speed up a computer. Deleting unnecessary files and unused applications should be part of regular IT maintenance. If you are unsure how to perform a system cleanup, you should engage a professional IT service to help clean up your computer so it can run faster. Many business and residential users schedule regular maintenance for cleaning. This type of IT maintenance service can now be performed remotely (using special software) or in-person.

When we see the term “cleanup,” the first thing we might think about is cleaning a computer's physical hardware, such as blowing out dust from the keyboard and fan. But that is a surface cleaning. More important is maintaining all the data, operating programs and applications on your device that continue to grow in both size and complexity over time. Are these apps and systems still functioning at maximum efficiency? There are many different factors that clutter and slow down computer operations:

• Fragmented Hard Drives – As more and more files fill your storage drive, the storage becomes fragmented, which makes it harder to retrieve information. The longer the drive must search for files, the slower your computer will function. Fragmenting occurs each time you turn a computer on and off.
  • Storage Space – When your storage drive becomes too full, even a defragmented drive can slow down. In the physical world, if a storage space becomes too packed with stuff, it takes longer to find items. The same is valid for digital storage.
• Insufficient RAM (Random Access Memory) – When a computer lacks sufficient RAM to work with large programs and files, it will start to slow down, freeze or crash altogether.
• Too Many Programs at Startup – Having too many programs set to open when you boot up your computer might slow down your computer at start-up. Also, keeping too many programs open can slow down your computer's overall speed and efficiency because many resources are being utilized simultaneously.
• Malware and Viruses – Cyberattacks are on the rise, and many types of malware and viruses can tax computer resources, slowing your system down and spreading to other connected devices. At their worst, malware and viruses can leave your computer inoperable.
• Programs Running in the Background – When you run too many background programs, RAM can become maxed out, making it harder for your computer to operate efficiently. If you work on your computer all day and leave programs open even after you’re done with them, you will likely notice your computer slowing down or freezing as the RAM is consumed.
• Using Outdated Software – Old software or software that hasn’t been updated might become incompatible with your system software or other applications. Even if the program still opens, it will become slower and buggier as time passes.
• Falling Behind on OS Updates – Updates released by software developers serve many purposes. They fix glitches, add features and tighten up cyber security. If you don’t install each update as it is released, you will likely find your machine slowing down, displaying quirky performance or falling victim to a cyberattack.
• Slow Web Browsing and Unnecessary Add-Ons – A web browser can become slow if users do not have the latest version of the program. Also, unnecessary add-ons and extensions impose another debilitating burden on your browsing experience.

Feeling Bloated? Clean Up the Computer to Run Faster

As mentioned earlier, having too many programs running or taking up storage space can lead to significant computer slowdowns. However, many programs are bundled and pre-installed by the computer manufacturers. Because these programs are unwanted or unneeded by the user, they only slow down processes and waste storage space and other system resources. These pre-installed programs are referred to as bloatware or crapware. Any programs you do not need or use should be uninstalled to free up space and increase speed.

Computer System Cleanup Tips

If you are tech-savvy, here are a few tips you can follow to clean up your computer:

• Remove Temporary Files – All programs leave behind some temporary files that are only used once. Over time, the temporary files begin to take up unnecessary space. In performing a disk cleanup, temporary files can be deleted, thus freeing up significant storage space. All systems contain disk cleanup modules, and they are user-friendly. However, we suggest using a reputable disk cleanup app to perform a more comprehensive cleanup.
• Uninstall All Unneeded Applications – Programs take up space. The more robust the program, the more space it requires. Review your applications and delete any you don’t use.
• Remove Very Large Files – If you have huge files, such as videos and graphics, move them to cloud storage or store them on an external drive.
• Defragment Hard Drives – PCs have had built-in “defraggers” for a long time. Defraggers move files around on your storage drives to make them more organized and faster to retrieve. Macs automatically perform their own file reorganization and defragging.
• Clear Caches – Caches and cookies keep data handy. However, over time, browser and other caches start to take up a lot of space. It is prudent to clean caches and cookies regularly.

Many personal computer users and small businesses lack the time and expertise to devote to appropriate IT maintenance. But the reality is that slow computers are frustrating and can slow down business operations. Cleaning up a computer to run faster takes some time and knowledge. Contact your computer repair specialist to perform regular maintenance to keep computers and devices operating at their intended speed. The technician can also check for security updates or signs of computer viruses and malware that can slow down your network and compromise personal and business data security.