Optimizing your (PC) performance
18th September 2023
Optimizing your computer for peak performance involves several steps, ranging from regular maintenance tasks to hardware and software upgrades. If you don't have IT support and want to brave it alone, here's a guide to help you get the most from your computer:
1. Regularly Update Software:
Keep your operating system, drivers, and software applications up to date. Software updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
2. Manage Startup Programs:
Disable unnecessary startup programs to reduce boot times and system resource usage. You can do this in the Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS).
3. Remove Unnecessary Software:
Uninstall programs you no longer use to free up disk space and reduce system clutter.
4. Clean Up Disk Space:
Regularly delete temporary files, old downloads, and unused files. You can use built-in disk cleanup tools or third-party software for this.
5. Manage Browser Extensions:
Keep your web browser tidy by disabling or removing unnecessary extensions, add-ons, and plugins.
6. Run Disk Defragmentation (Windows):
If you're using a traditional hard drive (not an SSD), consider running disk defragmentation periodically to optimize file storage.
7. Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software:
Protect your computer from viruses and malware by installing reputable security software and keeping it up to date.
8. Perform Regular Scans:
Schedule regular antivirus and anti-malware scans to ensure your system remains clean.
9. Update Hardware:
If possible, upgrade hardware components such as RAM, storage (e.g., SSD), or graphics card to improve overall performance.
10. Manage Virtual Memory (Windows): - Adjust your computer's virtual memory settings to ensure it's properly managed for optimal performance. Set it to "Automatically manage paging file size for all drives" for most users.
11. Check for Overheating: - Overheating can lead to performance issues. Ensure your computer's cooling system (fans and heatsinks) is clean and functioning correctly.
12. Remove Dust and Dirt: - Periodically clean the interior of your computer to remove dust and dirt, which can cause overheating and reduce performance.
13. Manage Background Processes: - Monitor and close unnecessary background processes and applications that consume system resources. Use Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (macOS) to identify resource hogs.
14. Optimize Power Settings: - Adjust your computer's power settings for better performance when plugged in and energy savings when on battery power.
15. Backup Your Data: - Regularly back up your important data to prevent data loss in case of hardware failures or other issues.
16. Consider a Fresh OS Install: - If your computer's performance remains sluggish despite optimization efforts, consider performing a clean operating system installation to start fresh.
17. Monitor Hardware Health: - Use hardware monitoring tools to keep an eye on the health of your components, including CPU and GPU temperatures, SMART status for hard drives/SSDs, and more.
18. Defragment or Optimize SSDs (Windows): - SSDs benefit from occasional optimization. Windows has a built-in tool to optimize SSDs. However, don't defragment SSDs, as it can reduce their lifespan.
19. Enable TRIM for SSDs (Windows and macOS): - TRIM helps maintain SSD performance over time. It's typically enabled by default, but you can check and enable it if necessary.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your computer operates optimally, stays secure, and performs at its best. Regular maintenance and updates are key to keeping your computer running smoothly but does require time and expertise. If you have neither of these, please contact us, to explore how we can help.