Is your Windows PC slow and too frustrating to use? Here in this guide, you will learn 5 simple but efficient ways to speed up your slow computer for free, no matter whether you are a novice or an advanced user. Use these steps to clear up junk files, remove unwanted programs, update your system, and more.

Read: How to Fix HP Laptop Fan So Loud When Nothing Is Running

Steps to Speed Up Your Slow Windows PC

Step 1: Clean Up Junk and Temporary Files:

Junk and corrupt files, such as temporary files, can make your PC sluggish. Here’s how to remove them:

Open the Run Dialog: Hit Windows + R to open the run window.

Delete Temporary Files:

• Type temp and press Enter. A folder will open.
• Press Ctrl+A to highlight all files, then press Delete. Skip files in use.
• Do the same with %temp% and prefetch commands (although granting permissions as prompted).

Run Disk Cleanup:

• Open the Start menu, type “Disk Cleanup,” and search for it.
• Pick the tool, select your drive, and check all the boxes to seek out junk files.
• Click on Allow permissions and wait (it may take up to 5 minutes or even more).

Step 2: Remove Unwanted Programs:

Too many conflicting programs, particularly security applications, impact performance.

Check Installed Programs:

• Hold the Windows key and press R Type appwiz. cpl, and press Enter.
• Check the installed programs list. Remove any unnecessary or duplicate applications (such as more than one of the same type of antivirus software, many times McAfee and AVE).
• Note: Two or more security programs may conflict with each other, avoid multiple antivirus, antispyware, and anti-malware being installed on a computer.

Don’t install too much security software:

• Uninstall freeware or unknown applications (such as McAfee Security Scan Plus) that have been added to other files.

Step 3: Manage Startup Programs:

Boot time can also be increased by disabling start-up programs that are not essential.

Open Task Manager:

• Right-click on a clear area of the taskbar and choose “Task Manager.”
• Click the “Startup Apps” tab.

Disable Unneeded Programs:

• Choose what programs you don’t need at startup (like ExpressVPN) and then tap “Disable.”
• Do not disable important system components (Intel services, etc.)

Step 4: Update Windows and Drivers:

It’s the basic, universal rule throughout the entire PC world – the more up-to-date your operating system and drivers are, the better your system is and the smoother it runs.

Check for Windows Updates:

• Go to Settings (press Windows + I) > Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Click “Check for Updates” and then download and install any available updates.
• For Windows 11, go to “Advanced Options” > ”Optional Updates” to look for driver updates.

Use Manufacturer Tools:

• If you are an HP PC user, use the HP Support Assistant for hardware-specific updates.

Step 5: Fix the Damaged System Files

Corrupt system files might also cause performance issues. Repair them with the System File Checker (SFC).

Open Command Prompt as Administrator:

• Hit the Start button, type cmd, then click “Run as administrator.”

Run SFC Scan:

• Enter the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow.
• The scan will last 5-30 minutes, depending on your computer’s condition.

Step 6: Scan for Malware

Malware can greatly drag down your PC. Use built-in or reputable tools for threat scanning.

Run Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool (MRT):

• Click on the Start button, type MRT, and open the tool.
• Opt for a fast scan (10-15 minutes) or a full scan for more thorough inspection.

Use a Paid Antivirus:

• If you have a reliable antivirus (such as McAfee), perform a quick scan for added security.

Step 7: Remove Duplicate Files:

Double files never make sense, and in the case of that Downloads folder, such redundancy is just adding fat to your system.

Check Downloads Folder:

• Open your Downloads and check for any duplicates (for example, two copies of NordVPN or two copies of Chrome setups).

Delete Unnecessary Files:

• Delete duplicate files and free up space.

Conclusion

By doing so—cleaning junk, deleting unnecessary apps, managing startup programs, updating your PC, fixing corrupted files, running a malware scan, and deleting duplicates—you can give your Windows PC a real speed boost. We recommend the maintenance provided with these methods on a regular basis to prevent your computer from running slowly. Stay tuned for more tech tips with upcoming guides!