Ask the Expert

What's Slowing Down Your Computer?

We get asked about computers slowing down by home and business users all the time! Often, the users think they just need a new computer. While that may be the case in some situations, most of the time, the computer just needs a good cleaning (physical and virtual) and some simple upgrades. Here are the things we often address to speed up a computer:

* Dirt inside the computer - clogging and slowing fans meant to blow heat off of the computer.
* Hard Disk Drives - a lot of folks still have computers with magnetic hard disk drives with spinning plates. Ball bearings wear down, drives deteriorate, and things just slow down.
* Not enough RAM - Too many manufacturers distribute computers with the "bare minimum" memory. This lets them sell their computer at a "consumer acceptable price point." That acceptance comes a serious cost in performance that quickly causes buyers' remorse.
* Bloat-ware - All the free trials and software that offers in app purchases are bogging down your computer. The manufacturer gets paid to install these programs on your computer before you even buy it. You get stuck paying the price.
* Sneak-ware or PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) - These things get slipped onto your computer with little to no warning. Users often click to accept the installation of something they need from an unscrupulous web site or publisher, and "Voila" - you've got software installing without your consent or knowledge.
*Site Permissions - Folks click ACCEPT way too easily, and suddenly they're getting notifications and there are 34 instances of a web  browser running in the background.