Computer running slow
Here is a couple of reasons as to why your PC or laptop would be running slow.
* Slow processor / CPU
* Low hard disk drive space
* Data files are corrupted
* Too many programs installed
* High amount of active programs
* Insufficient amount of RAM / Memory
* Computer is overheating
* Virus & Spyware that is stressing the CPU
* Bad hardware / software
Possible solutions
Low hard disk space
Your hard disk drive should always have enough space for a swap file and temporary files which are used by programs (At least 1GB of free space). Running the Disk Cleanup wizard will allow you to regain some extra space but usually uninstalling unused software will allow more free space to be available.
Corrupted files
Keeping files from becomming corrupted is quite easy. Occasionally running "chkdsk /f" in the command prompt when given permission to run at boot time will check your file system for corrupted files and repair them. A regular "Disk Defragment" is recommended to better allocate your files and clean up unused data. The Disk Defragmenter can be found in the Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools folder in Windows XP.
Hardware conflicts
You can check for any hardware conflicts which may be slowing your computer down by going to the Device Manager. Any conflicts should be fixed as soon as possible. Occasionally deleting all the contents of the "Prefetch" folder which is found in "C:Windows" will allow your computer to start up faster by avoiding loading programs that are no longer used. (Caution, delete the contents of the Prefetch folder, not the folder it self!)
Operating temperatures
Most processors are designed to run in between 60c and 95c. Read your processor and motherboard user manual to find what tempretures your CPU should be operating at. Make sure all fans are working and consider adding an extra fan to allow cooler air to come into your computer case.
Anti-virus / Spyware
Make sure you have Anti-virus and Anti-spyware programs installed, keep them updated and scan regularly, this is normally the culprit. I recommend you download and install AVG Free Edition (Anti-Virus) and Ad-Aware SE Personal (Anti-Spyware).
