5 Simple Fixes for a Slow Computer

Published: June 17, 2025

It’s a frustration we've all faced: your once-speedy computer now takes forever to open a file or load a webpage. Before you assume you need an expensive new machine, there are several simple steps you can take to breathe new life into your PC or Mac. Here are five fixes you can try yourself.

1. Restart Your Computer

It sounds too simple, but it works wonders. Leaving your computer on for days or weeks at a time allows temporary files and background processes to build up, consuming memory and processing power. A simple restart clears this out and gives your system a fresh start. Make it a habit to shut down your computer properly every day.

2. Free Up Hard Drive Space

Your computer's operating system needs free space on the hard drive to function efficiently. If your drive is more than 85% full, performance can suffer. Go through your files and delete anything you no longer need. Empty the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) afterwards. Consider moving large files like photos and videos to an external drive or cloud storage.

3. Manage Startup Programs

Many applications configure themselves to launch automatically when you turn on your computer. While convenient, this can dramatically increase boot-up time and use up valuable resources.

  • On Windows: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and go to the "Startup" tab to disable unnecessary programs.
  • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items and remove any applications you don't need to start automatically.

4. Scan for Viruses and Malware

Malicious software running in the background is a common cause of a slow computer. Ensure you have a reputable antivirus program installed and that it is kept up to date. Run a full system scan to detect and remove any threats.

5. Update Your Software and Operating System

Software updates don't just add new features; they often include critical performance improvements and security patches. Ensure your Windows or macOS is fully updated, as well as key applications like your web browser and antivirus software.

If you’ve tried these steps and your computer is still underperforming, it might be a sign of a more serious issue, like a failing hard drive or insufficient RAM. For hands-on help and expert diagnostics, The Tec Wizard provides friendly, professional home IT support across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.