Is your computer or laptop operating more slowly than usual?  It takes ages for an app to open when you click on it.  Internet browsing is like watching paint dry.  Don’t worry—you’re not alone.  Computers often slow down over time for a variety of reasons, such as bloated software, insufficient memory, old hardware, or congested storage.

The good news is that purchasing a new computer isn't always necessary.  You can revitalise your current machine with a few clever adjustments.  Whether you're running macOS, Windows 10, or Windows 11, we'll go over tried-and-true ways to speed up your sluggish laptop or PC in this tutorial.

1. Frequently restart your computer

Although it may seem apparent, a lot of individuals leave their laptops on for days or even weeks at a time.  Restarting restarts background programs that can be using up system resources and removes temporary files.

Why it helps: Your system memory (RAM) is updated and superfluous background processes are terminated every time you restart.  It's among the easiest yet most efficient methods to improve performance right away.

Expert advice: For best results, restart your computer at least once every seven days.

2. Turn Off Startup Applications

Too many apps starting up automatically when you switch on your computer is one of the most frequent reasons for a delayed startup time.

This is how to resolve it on Windows:

•  Task Manager may be opened by using Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

•  Select the Startup tab.

•  To disable superfluous apps, right-click on them and choose Disable.

 Regarding Mac:

• Unnecessary launch programs may be eliminated by going to System Settings → General → Login Items.

Why it helps: Faster boot speeds and greater system memory are the results of fewer startup programs.

3. Get Rid of Extra Software

All of us eventually install apps that we no longer utilise.  These programs use up disc space and may cause your system to lag by executing background activities.

How to go about it:

•  Go to Settings → Apps → Installed Apps on Windows and remove any unnecessary apps.

•  On a Mac, move unnecessary programs to the Trash by dragging them from the Applications folder.

Professional advice: To get rid of unnecessary files and registry entries, use a reliable uninstaller program (such as Revo Uninstaller or CCleaner).

4. Make Your Hard Drive Clean

Your computer may become noticeably slower if your hard disc is almost full, particularly if it's a conventional HDD.  Important space may be freed up by removing superfluous files.

How to make your drive cleaner:

•  Use Disc Cleanup (Windows): Go to the Start menu and search for "Disc Cleanup."

•  Delete temporary files: Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and delete all files.

•  Recycle Bin Empty: It's simple to forget!

•  Use programs like CCleaner or Duplicate Cleaner to get rid of duplicate files.

•  To clear cached data on a Mac, use Finder → Go → Go to Folder → ~/Library/Caches/.

Bonus Tip: Transfer big data (backups, images, and movies) to an external drive or cloud storage service like OneDrive or Google Drive.

5. Optimise or defragment your hard drive.

Defragmenting might be beneficial if your laptop or PC has a conventional HDD (Hard Disc Drive).  When files are dispersed over the disc, it causes fragmentation, which slows down access.

How to accomplish it on Windows:

•  In the search bar, type Defragment and Optimise Drives.

•  Click Optimise after selecting your primary drive.

Note: Defragmenting an SSD (Solid State Drive) is not necessary.  SSDs are automatically optimised differently by Windows.

6. Invest in New Hardware

Software updates aren't always sufficient.  Upgrading the hardware on your computer might significantly improve its performance if it is still crawling.

 a) Increase the RAM

Increasing your RAM might make it easier for your computer to manage additional tasks if you often multitask or use demanding apps.

• 4GB RAM: Standard use (office tasks, web surfing)

• Moderate multitasking with 8GB of RAM

• 16GB+ RAM: Professional software, video editing, or gaming

b) Use an SSD instead

Your computer might feel brand new again if you replace your old HDD with an SSD.  SSDs are significantly more energy-efficient, robust, and speedier.  Boot times may be shortened from more than a minute to less than 15 seconds.

 b) Clean the cooling fan on your laptop.

Overheating and dust might impede performance.  Use compressed air to clean your equipment or have it serviced by a professional if it feels hot or the fan is noisy all the time.

7. Update your drivers and operating system

Performance deterioration, glitches, and compatibility problems might result from outdated software.  Your system will function at its best if you update it often.

To upgrade Windows:

•  Navigate to Windows Update Settings Check for updates.

•  Install every update that is available.

In order to update drivers:

•  Utilise Device Manager or the official website of the manufacturer (such as AMD, NVIDIA, or Intel).

•  Steer clear of odd driver websites since they may be infected.

•  For Mac: Select System Preferences → General → Update Software.

8. Modify the Power Configuration

By default, many laptops are in "Power Saver" mode, which reduces performance in order to conserve battery life.

This is how to modify it on Windows:

•  Navigate to Power Options in the Control Panel.

•  Choose the Balanced or High Performance mode.

Your CPU will operate at its peak efficiency thanks to this.

9. Control Background Operations

Background programs that use CPU and memory include Skype, Dropbox, and OneDrive.

To control them:

•  Navigate to the Processes tab in Task Manager.

•  Determine which programs are using a lot of CPU, memory, or disc space.

•  Choose End Task with a right-click (for temporary respite).

•  Moreover, you may permanently turn off pointless background programs by going to Settings → Privacy → Background apps.

10. Check for viruses and malware

Your system may be slowed by malware, spyware, and adware that covertly operate in the background.  Perform a thorough system scan with:

• Windows Defender (free and integrated)

• or reliable third-party programs like Bitdefender or Malwarebytes

Update your antivirus software frequently, and stay away from dubious URLs and unfamiliar file downloads.

Concluding remarks

It doesn't have to be difficult or costly to speed up a sluggish laptop or computer.  Outdated hardware, congested storage, and superfluous software are the main causes of performance problems.  You may increase the performance and lifetime of your computer by completing the aforementioned procedures, including clearing out storage, turning off starting programs, and switching to an SSD.

Keep in mind that a little upkeep goes a long way.  Your laptop or PC will remain dependable and speedy for many years to come if you plan routine cleanups, upgrades, and restarts.