10 Mar 08 Why is my computer slow?
I cannot even begin to explain all of the possible scenarios that could be going on with your PC.
Most PC’s that are purchased today are loaded with unnecessary applications, software packages, etc. These applications/packages take up valuable space and system resources.
While many people use their PC for Internet surfing, gaming, office applications, etc, malware/spy-ware and other “parasite” programs get installed and chew away at whatever available system resources are left. Thus giving you a “slow” computer.
In my opinion, there is only 1 true way to get your PC back…clean install.
This can be completed in about 2 hours time or contact us.
You will need the following:
1.) USB external HDD or Memory Stick.
2.) Your factory CDROMS (most new computers come with the OS install CDROMS).
Just follow these steps, and your PC will be running like new again.
1.) USB external HDD or Memory Stick - If you do not have one of these, go get one. They are very cheap and can be very useful for backing up data. The easiest way to achieve this is to copy the entire “c:\Documents and Settings” folder. Depending on how may profiles you have, size shouldn’t be an issue if you have a good memory stick (over 2GB). Also, check your computer for files that may not have been stored under the “My Documents” folder. Some people like to save files/documents under the root of system drive (c:\). Be sure to check there as well.
2.) Restart the PC with the factory Operating System CDROM, this should be clearly labled on the CD. The computer will automatically start installing the Operating System.
3.) Depending on which PC brand you have, you can just follow through the installation without any headaches. You may need to swap the CDROMs during this process.
4.) Once the Operating System has been installed, you can then use the “Device Driver CDROM”, it may be labeled something similar. This will ensure that all the hardware on the PC has the correct drivers. Ideally, you want to check the PC manufacturer’s website and download the most recent drivers. But this should do you fine for now.
5.) Once you have the OS up and running, install some Virus protection. There are a number of free ones out there, but this one seems to work just fine. Also, download this program to help fight malware/spy-ware. Next peform a complete Windows Update on your PC. This will get you all the latest patches for your Operating System. Once the Windows Update has been completed, you then can load any software you may have (Office, Games, etc). Don’t forget to add your printer!
6.) Copy the contents of you memory stick to your My documents folder, this is where you can work on cleaning/organizing all your files. The document and settings folder contains your old “My Documents” files, your Internet Favorites, if you use Outlook Express, all your emails, and any files you may have saved.
The last step is to ensure your Virus protection and Microsoft Defender are completely up to date.
Next, run a system Defrag (which you should run 1x a month) and your computer should be ready.
If your computer still seems slow to you, go buy a new one 
