Working on a slow PC is counter-productive and aggravating to deal with. This article shows how to fix a slow computer without resorting to additional products.
Viruses
Begin by removing viruses that can slow a PC by affecting registry settings or running as background task (using RAM and bandwidth). Update the program prior to a scan so you have the latest bug database. Run this daily if you are online a lot fix computer errors contracted from email/websites.
Next, run a spyware tool every few weeks to check for these nuisance applications. If your anti-virus program has a pop-up blocker then activate it to stop these programs draining bandwidth on you.
Extras
Cleaning down a PC frees up space for virtual memory and reduces the Windows registry of bulky key settings. Start this by removing personal files you no longer require (e.g. torrents, videos, images). Remove applications you don't want anymore. This in itself can free up a lot of space depending on the application (e.g. databases, picture editors).
If your email is stored locally then delete unnecessary mails, or back them up to disk.
Finally, disable startup programs using Windows System Configuration tool (start / run / type in msconfig) to improve boot performance.
Maintenance
A little maintenance of the disk will help improve disk read/write performance, which in turn reduces the demands on RAM memory (swapping file fragments). Maintenance is done using three Windows tools. First, run the Disk Cleanup tool (under System Tools) to clear out temporary files and cookies. Next run the Disk Defragmenter. Finally, check the disk for errors every few months (right click a hard drive in Windows Explorer, select properties then pick Tools).
Once you know how to fix a slow computer it is important to keep up these regular maintenance tasks to incrementally improve and retain performance.
