How to Speed Up a Slow Computer
Before you spend £500-£1,000 on a new computer, try these steps. In 80% of cases, they'll make your current machine feel brand new.
Step 1: Check Your Startup Programs
Every program that launches at startup slows your boot time. On Windows, press Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Startup tab. Disable anything you don't need immediately. On Mac, go to System Settings → General → Login Items.
Common culprits to disable: Spotify, Skype, OneDrive (if you don't need it), Adobe Reader, any manufacturer bloatware.
Step 2: Free Up Disk Space
If your hard drive is over 80% full, performance suffers. Delete unnecessary files, empty your recycle bin, and uninstall programs you never use. On Windows, run Disk Cleanup (search for it in Start). On Mac, use About This Mac → Storage → Manage.
Step 3: Remove Malware and Viruses
Malware runs silently in the background, stealing resources and data. Run a full scan with Windows Defender (built-in, free) or Malwarebytes (free version available). On Mac, try Malwarebytes for Mac.
Step 4: Update Everything
Outdated drivers, operating systems, and applications cause slowdowns and compatibility issues. Run Windows Update or macOS Software Update and install everything pending.
Step 5: Add More RAM
If your computer has 4GB or less RAM, upgrading to 8GB or 16GB is the single best upgrade you can make. It costs £30-£60 and takes 10 minutes to install. This alone can transform a sluggish machine.
Step 6: Switch to an SSD
If your computer still uses a traditional hard drive (HDD), replacing it with a solid state drive (SSD) is the most impactful upgrade possible. Boot times go from minutes to seconds. A 500GB SSD costs around £35.
Step 7: Reset or Reinstall
If all else fails, a fresh start works wonders. Back up your important files, then reset Windows (Settings → System → Recovery) or reinstall macOS (Recovery Mode: Cmd+R on Intel, hold power button on Apple Silicon).
When It's Actually Time for a New Computer
If your computer is more than 8-10 years old, has a processor older than Intel 6th gen, or can't run your current version of Windows/macOS, it might genuinely be time for an upgrade.
Need Help?
If any of this sounds overwhelming, I offer a full computer optimisation service. I'll come to you or handle it remotely. From £49, and your machine will feel like new. Message me on WhatsApp.