What slows a PC down?

3D render of a tortoise with a computer
One of the topics people asked us to write about is
“Why did my computer suddenly slow down?”

There are numerous reasons why a computer may be going slow.
It can be hardware or software related, and sometimes it’s both!

Read below to understand what may be causing the slow down,
and some quick tips to resolve the situation!

As always, if unsure, feel free to
call us at 718-676-6910 or reply to this email
and let us know your particular situation!
PROGRAMS slow

Programs do not take up any RAM while they are sitting on the computer. However, while they are running they take up resources on the computer.

When do programs do more harm than good?
When a program is running on a computer and it is not needed.

Why does that happen?
When many programs get installed they tend to place themselves in the startup menu. Once they are in the startup menu, they will automatically run, which takes up unnecessary resources on your computer.

How do you resolve the issue?
If it is a program or printer which you no longer use, simply uninstall the program or device.

If unsure what is necessary, it is highly recommended to seek a professional technician
RAM
RAM
Memory, otherwise known as RAM (as discussed in Newsletter #31) is responsible for the immediate work that the computer is performing.

Over time, with the installation of numerous programs, the amount of RAM installed may not be sufficient to handle the current load.

How to determine if this is the case:
Click HERE to find out how.

If the RAM is the problem, how do I remedy the situation?
It depends on your computer, operating system and bittage (32 or 64 bit) to determine the maximum amount of operable RAM.
To test your computer, go to http://www.crucial.com/ and look for the option to scan your computer.
This will let you know what you have and what your options are in regard to expanding the amount of RAM in your computer.
VIRUS
virus
A virus may be the cause of your computer slowing down.

There are many types of viruses. Some are intended to steal information, while others “simply” are created to slow down your computer!

How do you remove a virus?
Call your local computer professional who will be able to remove any and all remnants of the virus.
HARD DRIVE
Hard Drive
Your hard drive might be the cause of your computer going slow.

Why?
Since the hard drive doubles as virtual memory, if there is not enough contiguous available space on the drive, it may be the cause for the computer going slow

What fills up the hard drive?
Many times the reason hard drives get full are from numerous pictures, music and videos.

What can you do about it?
Delete unnecessary data.
Just to recap, there can be numerous reasons why your computer is going slow. What are listed above is just some of the common reasons we have seen recently. The good news is that we offer free diagnosis, so schedule your computer’s yearly check up today!

If you have any questions, please call us at 718-676-6910 or email us at help@avenuemcomputers.com

Have a wonderful afternoon,

Yonatan Ziegler
Avenue M Computers

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