1) Clean The Start Up Folder.

Items in the Startup folder are not the actual programs themselves. They are simply shortcuts to the programs. Deleting these items will not affect the programs themselves. If you are lucky enough to be using Windows 98 or XP, you can perform the cleanup right from the same screen used to check your Startup programs list. Move your cursor over the item you want to remove, right-click, and choose delete. Before you delete any item from your start-up folder, be sure that you at least try to determine its function.

Some programs like Microsoft Office will have a Fast Find or Office Start in the Startup folder. These shortcuts are unnecessary and can be deleted. If you don't know the purpose of an item in your Startup folder, you can still delete it. If you later find that you want to return it to the Startup folder, you can simply open the Recycle Bin, highlight the icon, right-click, and choose Restore.

2) Remove Old Programs and Software.

The first thing to do is click Start /Programs then hunt for the program you want to delete. Oftentimes, you'll find an Uninstall program under its program group. Another way would be to click the Start button/Settings/Control Panel. Then open the "Add/Remove programs" icon. You will see a list of programs that Windows can remove from your system. Just click the one you would like to remove and hit the OK button.

3) Scan Your Computer for Viruses, Mal-Ware, Trojans, and Spy ware.

In order to do this, it is highly recommended that you get a very good virus and spy ware cleaner. A free on can be found on the internet, but you should go to your nearest computer store for one. If your computer gets filled with ad-ware, viruses, spy ware, and other things, it will slow down dramatically. Try to detect them early and destroy them before any serious harm can come to your computer.

4) Keep Windows Update Turned On at All Times.

There are so many people who overlook this one simple step. Windows will provide free updates to all users. All you have to do is make sure that the icon is present and turned on. You will be reminded each time a new patch or new software becomes available. Do not overlook this step. Windows keeps all users up to date on all current viruses and other harmful things that can hurt your computer.

5) Remove Old Downloaded Desktop Themes.

The theme you downloaded may have installed onto your computer in a number of ways. Try this option: Click Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Add / Remove programs. Look for any themes you may have installed and attempt to remove from here. You can also look in the Program Files Folder: Click Start -> Programs, and search for folders which represent theme names you installed on your system. If you find the themes listed, click the listing and look for the uninstall program button.

Keep in mind that this is only a small list of things to speed up any computer that uses windows. There can be a number of things wrong or altering your computer speed. Do a search online and you can find more things to look for. Good luck and take care of your computer.