Steps
- Delete unused files. Windows will run faster if the drive is cleared of unused files. These unused files are typically Temporary Files, URL history, cookies, form history, and files present in Recycle bin. Download a free program CleanUp to make this task easy. It?s also not a bad idea to remove programs you don?t use anymore. An easy way to do both is by using the free program CCleaner.
- Defragment hard drives. Use the method below to use the utility supplied with Windows, or download Defraggler if you prefer to use a 3rd party program instead.
- Open My Computer.
- Right click on the drive you want to defragment and select "Properties".
- Click on the Tools tab.
- Select Defragment Now....
- Reduce the number of programs that automatically start with Windows. These are "applets" or sometimes "craplets". What is a craplet? It?s basically any program on your computer that you really don?t need, but start automatically. These applets slow the boot process and waste the computer's processing time and memory. By disabling these start-up apps, you will speed the boot up process and those resources will be available for the applications that you choose to start after booting up. Download PCDecrapifier to help remove craplets. It's very easy to use, and has the ability to backup any changes that are made. You can also go to PCPitStop and do a free scan of your computer. It will provide you with suggestion on how to secure and speed up your machine. If you?re looking for security scans, check AuditMyPc. Otherwise, manually change the applications that automatically start:
- Click start
- Go to run
- Type msconfig, and click ok
- Go to the start-up tab and uncheck the apps you don?t want to automatically start when your computer boots up (CAUTION: don?t uncheck everything. Some of these applets are needed when your computer starts up, like your virus protection. You can find out by Googling the name of the applet.).
Tips
- Download Microsoft Bootvis, a free program that allows you to optimize your system.
Warnings
- Remember, when you make changes, good and bad can come from it. Deleting critical files will prevent your PC from booting. Delete files with caution!
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