Optimize your computer’s startup process for faster performance.
If your computer is running slow, don’t panic. First, try some simple steps. One possible culprit is too many software programs launching at startup. To fix this, you can access the Startup tab in Task Manager on Windows 10 or 11. Alternatively, for Windows 7, you can type “msconfig” (without quotes) in the search bar and open the Startup tab. Be cautious when disabling processes related to your hardware or Windows itself. However, you can disable other non-essential programs that you don’t need to run every time your computer boots up. For instance, Steam or Adobe Reader may be taking up unnecessary system resources. To identify the impact of each program on startup, check the information provided by Windows. Start by removing the high-impact non-essential programs, then proceed to the next ones on the list. You can find more details about which programs to disable or enable in our guide on speeding up your PC in 60 seconds.
Part 1 of your guide to spring cleaning
If disabling startup programs does not improve your computer’s speed, consider doing a more thorough cleaning. Remove any programs you don’t use, as many pre-installed programs can slow down your system. To do this, search for “Add or remove programs” in the Windows search bar and go through the list of installed programs. To prevent malware from affecting your computer’s speed, run a security scan. You can use the Windows Security tool included in Windows 10 and 11, or refer to PCWorld’s recommended antivirus suites. There is no need to defragment your storage, as it is unnecessary for SSDs and modern operating systems automatically perform this task for traditional hard drives.
Second phase of spring cleaning
While you’re busy removing unwanted software from your computer, don’t forget to give your hardware a scrub too. Although it’s recommended to clean the interior of your PC at least once a year, most people never bother to open up their case and get rid of the dust buildup. Over time, this accumulation of debris can cause temperature problems inside your PC, which can lead to reduced performance or even complete failure. In fact, I once had a family member ask me to fix their sluggish and unresponsive PC, and simply cleaning out the dust inside made it run like new. To avoid such issues, take a look at PCWorld’s guide to PC cleaning before you crack open your case. Also, while you’re at it, don’t forget to clean your mechanical keyboard – it can get pretty gross under the keys!
Reinstall Windows
Experiencing slow performance? Exhausted all software optimization tricks? Windows is notorious for declining performance over time, so consider a fresh install of Windows. Before doing so, backup critical system data with native Windows tools, a comprehensive backup program like R-Drive Image 7, or a cloud backup service. Make sure to have your Windows product key on hand and follow this guide for a factory-new copy of Windows. Beware: if using a manufacturer-supplied recovery disk, remove all preinstalled bloatware after the reinstall. Although the article is a few years old, the information is still applicable.
Overclock! (Or undervolt)
If you’re low on funds for new equipment, overclocking can be a solution. Overclocking involves manually increasing the clock speeds of your hardware using software, but many laptops do not support this feature. As long as your desktop PC has adequate cooling and a compatible CPU (Intel processors must have a “K” at the end of their model number, and AMD’s Ryzen X3D chips work best), speeding up your processor and graphics card can greatly enhance your PC’s performance.
Our CPU overclocking guide can walk you through each step of manually boosting your computer processor. Overclocking modern GeForce and Radeon graphics cards is easier, with automatic overclocking options available in the Wattman section of AMD’s Radeon Settings tool, and Nvidia’s GeForce Experience software offering a similar feature. However, for those who want to push their overclocks to the extreme, or if your software doesn’t have an automatic overclocking feature, our guide to manually overclocking your graphics card is available. If your older graphics card is running too hot, undervolting could be the solution. Our guide to undervolting outlines the pros and cons of reducing the power supplied to your graphics card, helping you keep it running smoothly for months to come.
Install an SSD
There are a few options available to improve your computer’s performance, including changing hardware or adjusting your usage habits. For optimal performance, upgrading from a traditional hard drive to a solid-state drive is like upgrading from a horse and buggy to a Ferrari. The difference is noticeable, from faster boot times to quicker application launches and file transfers. Upgrading to an SSD is the most significant upgrade most users can make, and you can find a 500GB drive for around $50 to $60. Even the fastest hard drives cannot match the speed of an SSD, and our guide to the best SSDs can help you find the right one for your needs. Additionally, we offer a step-by-step guide for installing an SSD in your laptop.
Add more RAM
Switch to Linux or ChromeOS Flex
If your old PC is not worth upgrading with new hardware, don’t fret! You can still use it as your daily computer by installing a lightweight operating system instead of Windows. Linux is a great option as it runs better on older and less powerful hardware. There are Linux variants, like Puppy Linux, LXLE, and Lubuntu, that have minimalist requirements and are perfect for running on old PCs. Although the transition from Windows to Linux may seem daunting, it’s much smoother now than it used to be. Check out our beginner’s guide to Linux, which includes software recommendations on the last page, to help you get started. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can turn your PC into a Chromebook for free by using Google’s ChromeOS Flex, which runs on Linux.
Embrace cloud gaming
You don’t have to rely on Linux as the sole solution for repurposing your computer. Instead of using an underperforming PC for all your tasks, consider assigning it a specific role if you have another primary rig. Here are some ways to give new life to old computers. If you’re a gamer, one option for an old laptop is to use it for gaming while you’re away from your main rig. “But wait!” you say, “An old PC can’t handle gaming!” However, with a decent internet connection, cloud gaming has finally become a reality, enabling even the most modest computers to stream gameplay from distant servers, much like Netflix. There are now several services available, including Nvidia’s GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Sony’s PlayStation Plus. Our guide to the best cloud gaming services can help you choose the best fit for your needs, although PC gamers with extensive game collections will likely find GeForce Now most useful. If you want to use an older PC as a secondary gaming computer, you can always turn to Steam in-home streaming. Steam in-home streaming operates games on your high-performance gaming rig but sends them over your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to play them on other devices. It’s similar to cloud gaming, but it’s right in your home.
Fling some files
When it comes to giving a new life to your hardware, there are two popular options: converting an outdated computer into a specialized home theater PC or a file server.
The process is not too complicated, but it does mean bidding farewell to your PC’s email and Office functions. To achieve either of these goals, there are excellent free software solutions available. Consider MediaPortal or Kodi for an HTPC, or FreeNAS for a top-notch home server.
Bite the bullet
Occasionally, a system reaches a point where it is no longer useful. In such cases, we can assist you in finding a new computer, akin to taking your old dog behind the shed. If you have financial constraints, our guides for the best laptops, best Chromebooks, and best laptops under $500 can steer you towards the right choice. Moreover, we provide bi-weekly compilations of the finest deals on laptops and desktop PCs.