Falls Technology ServicesA slow computer doesn't always mean a new one. These are the usual causes, roughly from easiest to fix to hardest.
1. The disk is nearly full
When the main drive is almost full, everything slows down. Empty the Downloads folder, uninstall programs you don't use, and move old photos and videos to a backup.
2. Too much starting up
Many programs quietly start every time the computer does. On Windows, open Task Manager and look at Startup apps; turn off the ones you don't need straight away.
3. It still has a spinning hard drive
If the computer is a few years old, it may have a traditional hard drive. Swapping it for an SSD, with everything copied across, is often the single biggest speed-up you can buy, and it costs far less than a new computer.
4. Not enough memory
Lots of browser tabs and programs at once need memory (RAM). Some computers can take more; some laptops have it built in.
5. Updates are stuck
Half-finished updates can slow things down. Restart properly (not just sleep) and let updates finish.
6. Dust and heat
A clogged fan makes a computer slow itself down to stay cool. If it's loud and hot, it needs cleaning.
7. Malware or junk software
Pop-ups, a browser that changes its home page, or programs you didn't install are signs of unwanted software.
If you'd like a second opinion, we find what's dragging it down and fix it, or tell you honestly when a replacement is cheaper.
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