Slow Computer
A slow computer can be attributed to many factors. Hardware factors include things like not enough memory or hard disk space, sluggish CPU, graphics card or motherboard, or a combination of these. Even with a potentially fast computer, if one component functions poorly, it can create a bottleneck in system performance and make the entire computer seem slow. This is why the Windows Experience Index (available in all Windows versions starting with Vista) is as rigorous as it seems because it limits a computer's base score to its lowest component subscore. Remedying this type of problem requires making physical changes to the system and often involves upgrading components. In today's market, however, depending on its age, it's sometimes more economical to simply purchase a new computer rather than repair or upgrade an old one.
Software factors include the presence of spyware, too many programs loaded into memory, faulty drivers, and a full or heavily fragmented hard disk drive. While it is possible to significantly increase the speed of a computer by following maintenance guidelines (see Maintaining Your Computer), their effectiveness is limited to what the hardware will allow. A computer that is several years old, no matter how well maintained, will generally start to feel its age and begin slowing down because of ever increasing processing demands imposed upon its older hardware by newer software. Due to this "performance ceiling", and contrary to claims from countless third party registry cleaners and PC optimizing software, services like cleaning out the registry, freeing limited disk space and tweaking system settings will most likely have little or no noticeable effect on system performance. Furthermore, some of these programs may inadvertently damage your system and occasionally come bundled with malware.
Software factors include the presence of spyware, too many programs loaded into memory, faulty drivers, and a full or heavily fragmented hard disk drive. While it is possible to significantly increase the speed of a computer by following maintenance guidelines (see Maintaining Your Computer), their effectiveness is limited to what the hardware will allow. A computer that is several years old, no matter how well maintained, will generally start to feel its age and begin slowing down because of ever increasing processing demands imposed upon its older hardware by newer software. Due to this "performance ceiling", and contrary to claims from countless third party registry cleaners and PC optimizing software, services like cleaning out the registry, freeing limited disk space and tweaking system settings will most likely have little or no noticeable effect on system performance. Furthermore, some of these programs may inadvertently damage your system and occasionally come bundled with malware.