Frequently Asked Questions

Troubleshooting Guide: My Computer is Running Slow

Common Causes:

  • Too many background programs running
  • Insufficient RAM or outdated hardware
  • Malware or excessive temporary files

Troubleshooting Steps:

Step 1: Check CPU & Memory Usage

Windows
  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Click on the Performance tab to check CPU, Memory, and Disk usage.
  3. If CPU or RAM usage is consistently above 80-90%, identify high-resource programs in the Processes tab.
  4. End unnecessary tasks by right-clicking and selecting End Task (be careful not to close system-critical processes).
  5. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.
Mac
  1. Press Cmd + Space, type Activity Monitor, and open it.
  2. Check the CPU and Memory tabs for high usage.
  3. Close unnecessary applications consuming excessive resources.
  4. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.

Step 2: Check for Unnecessary Startup Programs

Windows
  1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab.
  2. Disable unnecessary programs by right-clicking and selecting Disable.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.
Mac
  1. Go to System Settings > Users & Groups > Login Items.
  2. Remove unnecessary startup applications.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.

Step 3: Scan for Malware and Viruses

Windows:
  1. Run Windows Defender (Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection) or a trusted third-party antivirus.
  2. Remove detected threats.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.
Mac:
  1. Use Malwarebytes for Mac or built-in security tools.
  2. Remove detected threats.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.

Step 4: Free Up Disk Space

Windows:
  1. Open Settings > System > Storage, then use Storage Sense to clean unnecessary files.
  2. Run Disk Cleanup by searching for it in the Start menu.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.
Mac:
  1. Open Apple Menu > About This Mac > Storage and remove unused files.
  2. Empty the Trash and delete Downloads folder clutter.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.

Step 5: Check for Windows/MacOS & Driver Updates

Windows:
  1. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install pending updates.
  2. Update drivers via Device Manager or visit the manufacturer’s website.
  3. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.
Mac:
  1. Go to System Settings > Software Update and install available updates.
  2. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.

Step 6: Check for Hardware Bottlenecks

  1. RAM: If your PC has 4GB or less, upgrading to 8GB or more can improve speed.
  2. Hard Drive: If using an HDD, consider upgrading to an SSD for a major speed boost.
  3. Overheating: If the computer is hot or loud, clean internal dust and ensure proper ventilation.
  4. Power-cycle (reboot) the computer.




If the problem persists or you would like further assistance, open a support request ticket by clicking here



 Last updated 01/30/2025 8:31 pm

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