Three Quick Fixes to a Slow Computer

Hang-ups and freezes give both you and your computer a bad day. If your computer is running slower than usual, it may be infected with a virus or you may be running it beyond its limits. There are three quick fixes to unresponsive computers.

* Add More RAM

A very effective way to boost your computer’s speed is to increase your RAM or random access memory. RAM is the place where your computer stores temporary information that is needed to maintain open applications. With more RAM, your computer can store more information and consequently run more applications.

If you run out of RAM, you will experience choppy videos and music, and stuttered responses to keyboard and mouse commands. You can increase your RAM by upgrading or adding more RAM modules. RAM modules can have a capacity of 256MB, 512MB, 1GB and 2GB.

* Run Antivirus and Antispyware Software

Viruses, spyware, adware and malware all reduce your computer’s speed. These malicious programs can run stealthily in the background and hijack your files and processes. To deal with these threats, scan your computer frequently — especially after surfing the Web.

There are many good antivirus and antispyware software available for free on the Internet, but the best way to stay protected is to purchase paid software that offer real time protection. With real time protection, viruses and unwanted files can be spotted, blocked or removed the moment they enter or attempt to breach your system.

* Close Unnecessary Applications

A very simple way to deal with a lazy computer is to decrease its workload! If you are fond of running many programs in the background, close those that you do not immediately need and keep the number of open applications at a minimum. With fewer tasks to juggle, your computer can better manage your open applications.

Try out these quick and easy fixes and watch your computer speeds soar!