Objective:
This guide helps users troubleshoot a slow-performing PC or laptop.
Steps:
Close Unnecessary Programs
- Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Under the Processes tab, identify programs consuming high amounts of CPU, memory, or disk.
- Right-click and select End Task to close unnecessary or unresponsive programs.
Check for Updates
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update (Windows) or System Preferences > Software Update (macOS).
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
Free Up Disk Space
- For Windows:
- Open File Explorer, right-click on your primary drive (usually C:), and select Properties.
- Click Disk Cleanup, select the files you want to delete (e.g., temporary files), and click OK.
- For macOS:
- Open Finder, go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage, and manage files under Manage to clear space.
- Open Finder, go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage, and manage files under Manage to clear space.
- For Windows:
Disable Startup Programs
- For Windows:
- Open Task Manager > Startup tab, and disable any unnecessary programs from launching at startup.
- For macOS:
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items, and remove items you don’t need.
- Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items, and remove items you don’t need.
- For Windows:
Run a Malware Scan
- Run a full scan using Microsoft Defender (Windows) or your approved antivirus software to check for any malicious software affecting performance.