If your Windows PC is running slow or acting strangely, performance troubleshooting is essential. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, identifying and resolving the causes of sluggishness can greatly improve your computing experience. Here are five proven methods to troubleshoot and boost Windows performance, focusing on Clean Up & Repair techniques.
What Causes Poor Windows Performance?
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand why your PC might be running poorly. Common culprits include unnecessary startup programs, accumulated junk files, outdated drivers, malware, and fragmented disks. Addressing these areas will help restore your PC’s speed and efficiency.
Method 1: Remove Unnecessary Startup Programs
Beginner Guide:
Many programs automatically start with Windows, which can slow boot time and consume resources.
Step-by-step:
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click the “Startup” tab.
3. Review the list and disable programs you don’t need at startup by right-clicking and selecting “Disable.”
Example: If you notice apps like Spotify or Skype loading every time you boot your PC, disable them here unless you use them daily.
Advanced Tip:
Use Glary Utilities to manage startup items more comprehensively. Its Startup Manager not only lists startup apps but also provides recommendations on what’s safe to disable.
Method 2: Clean Up Junk Files and Unwanted Programs
Beginner Guide:
Temporary files, system cache, and leftover data from uninstalled programs can clutter your hard drive and slow down performance.
Step-by-step:
1. Open “Settings” and go to “System” > “Storage.”
2. Click on “Temporary files” and select items to delete.
3. Uninstall unused programs from “Apps & features.”
Example: Removing old games or trial software you no longer use frees up space and resources.
Advanced Tip:
Glary Utilities offers a powerful Disk Cleaner and Uninstall Manager. These tools scan for and remove deep-seated junk files and unwanted applications more thoroughly than Windows’ built-in options.
Method 3: Run a Malware and Virus Scan
Beginner Guide:
Malware can dramatically slow down your PC by running malicious processes in the background.
Step-by-step:
1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
2. Click “Virus & threat protection” and then “Quick scan.”
3. Follow prompts to remove any threats found.
Example: Detecting and removing adware or browser hijackers that inject ads or redirect searches.
Advanced Tip:
Glary Utilities includes a Malware Remover tool that can supplement your main antivirus, detecting potentially unwanted programs and browser plugins.
Method 4: Repair Corrupted System Files
Beginner Guide:
Corrupted or missing system files can cause slowdowns or unusual errors.
Step-by-step:
1. Type “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click “Command Prompt,” and choose “Run as administrator.”
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Let the scan complete and follow on-screen instructions to repair files.
Example: System File Checker can fix issues stemming from improper shutdowns or failed Windows updates.
Advanced Tip:
Glary Utilities’ “Repair System Files” feature simplifies this process, offering a one-click fix for common system file problems.
Method 5: Defragment and Optimize Hard Drives
Beginner Guide:
Fragmented files on traditional hard drives can slow down data access.
Step-by-step:
1. Press Windows + S and search for “Defragment and Optimize Drives.”
2. Select your drive and click “Optimize.”
Example: Defragmenting can improve load times for large files and games.
Advanced Tip:
Glary Utilities includes a Disk Defrag tool that not only defragments but also optimizes your drives, offering scheduled operations and detailed fragmentation reports.
How Can Glary Utilities Help with All These Tasks?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive suite designed to make cleaning up and repairing your PC easy for users of any skill level. Its one-click maintenance feature detects and resolves multiple issues at once, while its specialized modules allow you to dive deep into startup management, junk file cleanup, registry repair, and more.
For Beginners:
The user-friendly interface and step-by-step wizards make complex tasks approachable.
For Advanced Users:
Detailed settings and reports, along with specialized tools, provide greater control and customization.
Conclusion
Regular Clean Up & Repair is crucial for maintaining Windows performance. By removing unnecessary startup programs, cleaning junk files, scanning for malware, repairing system files, and optimizing your drives, you can resolve common performance issues. Whether you use Windows’ built-in tools or a comprehensive solution like Glary Utilities, applying these five proven methods will keep your PC running smoothly and efficiently.