If your computer feels slow or laggy, it’s time to learn how to speed up your PC. Over time, even the best machines can slow down due to clutter, outdated software, or too many background processes. The good news is that with simple steps, you can make your PC faster and more responsive again.
This guide shares practical tips anyone can use to boost their computer’s speed and performance.
Close Unnecessary Programs and Startup Apps
Many programs run in the background without you realizing it. These apps use memory and processing power, slowing your PC down.
What to Do
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Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to see running programs.
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Close apps you don’t need.
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Disable unnecessary startup programs by going to the Startup tab in Task Manager. This prevents slow boot times.
Clean Up Disk Space
A full hard drive can make your PC sluggish. Deleting unwanted files and apps frees space and improves speed.
What to Do
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Use Disk Cleanup (search “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu).
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Delete temporary files, recycle bin items, and system cache.
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Uninstall unused programs via Control Panel > Programs and Features.
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Consider moving large files (videos, photos) to an external drive.
Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated software can cause performance problems or bugs. Keeping Windows and device drivers updated ensures smooth operation.
What to Do
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Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install updates.
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Visit your PC or hardware manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.
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Use device manager to check driver status if needed.
Check for Malware and Viruses
Malware can seriously slow down your PC and cause other issues. Regularly scanning your system keeps it safe and fast.
What to Do
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Use built-in Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
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Run a full system scan and remove any threats.
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Avoid downloading files from suspicious sites.
Optimize Your Hard Drive
If you use a traditional hard drive (HDD), it may become fragmented, slowing down data access.
What to Do
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Use the built-in Defragment and Optimize Drives tool (search for it in Start).
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Run defragmentation regularly for HDDs.
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If you have an SSD, do not defragment; instead, check for firmware updates.
Adjust Visual Effects for Better Performance
Windows has many visual effects like animations and shadows. These look nice but can slow your PC, especially older ones.
What to Do
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Right-click This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings.
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Under Performance, click Settings.
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Choose “Adjust for best performance” or manually disable effects you don’t need.
Increase Virtual Memory
Virtual memory uses your hard drive as extra RAM when physical RAM is low. Increasing it can help speed up your PC.
What to Do
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Go to Control Panel > System > Advanced system settings > Performance > Settings > Advanced tab.
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Click Change under Virtual memory.
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Set a custom size larger than the current value based on your RAM size.
Upgrade Hardware If Needed
Sometimes software fixes aren’t enough. Upgrading key parts can make a huge difference.
Consider Upgrading
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Add more RAM: This helps with multitasking and heavy programs.
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Switch to an SSD: SSDs are much faster than traditional hard drives.
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Upgrade your CPU or GPU: For gaming or heavy tasks, better processors and graphics cards boost speed.
Keep Your PC Cool and Clean
Overheating can cause your PC to slow down to protect itself.
What to Do
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Clean dust from vents and fans regularly.
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Ensure good airflow around your PC.
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Use cooling pads for laptops.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to speed up your PC can save you time and frustration. Simple steps like closing extra apps, cleaning your disk, and updating software make a big difference. For lasting speed, consider hardware upgrades and good maintenance habits. A fast PC means better work, gaming, and entertainment.
