Computer Running Slow? 8 Simple Ways to Speed It Up

We’ve all been there. One day your computer takes forever to start. Programs that used to open instantly make you wait, and websites crawl even though your internet plan is faster than ever. Is your computer just getting old? Do you need a new one?

Usually not. Most slow computers need a cleanup, not a replacement. Start with the steps below, in order. They’re free, safe, and work on both Windows PCs and Macs.

Why computers slow down

Too many programs start automatically and run in the background, using memory you need for everything else.
Old software piles up, including programs you no longer use, outdated utilities, and browser extensions.
Storage is nearly full, leaving no room for the system to work.
Malware or adware is running without your knowledge.
The hardware is older, especially a spinning hard drive instead of a solid-state drive (SSD).

8 ways to speed up your computer

1. Restart it

It sounds too simple, but restarting clears out stuck programs and finishes pending updates. Many people only ever put their computer to sleep, so it hasn’t fully restarted in weeks.

2. Install updates

Updates fix bugs and security holes that can slow you down. On Windows, go to Settings › Windows Update. On a Mac, go to System Settings › General › Software Update.

3. Stop programs from opening at startup

On Windows, open Task Manager (press Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and choose Startup apps, then disable anything you don’t need right away. On a Mac, go to System Settings › General › Login Items.

4. Uninstall programs you don’t use

Old trial software, toolbars, and “PC optimizer” apps often do more harm than good. On Windows, go to Settings › Apps › Installed apps. On a Mac, drag unused apps from the Applications folder to the Trash.

5. Free up storage space

Aim to keep at least 10–15% of your drive free. On Windows, turn on Storage Sense under Settings › System › Storage. On a Mac, check System Settings › General › Storage. Move old photos and videos to an external drive or cloud storage.

6. Scan for malware

Windows includes Windows Security. Run a full scan from Settings › Privacy & security › Windows Security. Be wary of pop-ups claiming your computer is infected and urging you to call a number or buy software. Those are scams.

7. Tidy up your web browser

Dozens of open tabs and unused extensions can slow everything down. Close tabs you don’t need and remove extensions you don’t recognize or use.

8. Consider a simple upgrade

If your computer is several years old and still slow after all this, the biggest improvement usually comes from replacing a spinning hard drive with a solid-state drive (SSD), or adding memory (RAM). A local repair shop can tell you whether it’s worth it or whether it’s time for a new computer.

Prefer a guided walkthrough?

If you’d rather follow along step by step, Infinity Guides offers the Clean Your Computer Easy Guide, a video course that walks through a full cleanup.