Is your Windows PC running slow, freezing, or taking forever to load programs? If so, you might be making some common mistakes when trying to troubleshoot performance issues. Many beginners overlook simple steps or use inefficient methods. Let’s go through the most frequent missteps and learn how to clean up and repair your Windows computer properly with clear, step-by-step instructions.
Are You Ignoring the Obvious: Restarting Your PC?
Before diving into complex solutions, don’t forget the basics. Many performance problems can be fixed by simply restarting your computer. This process clears temporary files and resets system resources. If you haven’t done so recently, click the Start menu, select Power, and choose Restart.
Are You Letting Unnecessary Programs Run at Startup?
Many PCs slow down because too many programs launch when Windows starts. Here’s how to check and disable them:
1. Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
2. Click the Startup tab.
3. Review the list. For programs you don’t need at startup (like chat apps, updaters, or software you rarely use), right-click and choose Disable.
4. Restart your computer to see the difference.
Are You Overlooking Junk Files and Clutter?
Temporary files, browser caches, and leftover items from uninstalled programs can slow down your PC. Cleaning them up is essential. Instead of searching for files manually, use a dedicated tool for a thorough and safe cleanup.
Glary Utilities is an excellent choice for beginners. Here’s how to use it:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Open the program and click the 1-Click Maintenance tab.
3. Check the boxes for Registry Cleaner, Shortcuts Fixer, Temporary Files Cleaner, Startup Manager, and Tracks Eraser.
4. Click Scan for Issues. Once completed, click Repair Problems.
This quick process will help you remove unnecessary files, fix registry errors, and optimize startup items all at once.
Are You Avoiding Windows Updates?
Outdated Windows components can cause performance drops, bugs, and security issues. Always ensure your system is up to date:
1. Click the Start menu, then Settings (the gear icon).
2. Select Update & Security.
3. Click Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart your PC if needed.
Are You Forgetting to Check for Malware?
Malware or unwanted software can greatly reduce system performance. Use Windows Security (built into Windows 10/11):
1. Open the Start menu and type Windows Security.
2. Click Virus & threat protection.
3. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a more thorough check.
4. Remove any threats found.
Glary Utilities also offers a Malware Remover tool for an extra layer of security.
Are You Neglecting Disk Optimization?
Fragmented or inefficiently organized files can slow down your hard drive. While Windows defragments disks automatically, it’s good practice to check manually, especially if you use a traditional HDD (not SSD).
1. Open the Start menu and type Defragment and Optimize Drives.
2. Select your drive and click Optimize.
Glary Utilities provides a Disk Defrag tool under Advanced Tools, which is easy for beginners to use and can further help with disk performance.
Are You Not Paying Attention to System Resource Usage?
Having too many programs open eats up RAM and CPU. To see what’s using the most resources:
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click the Processes tab.
3. Sort by CPU or Memory to find programs using the most resources.
4. Right-click unnecessary ones and choose End task (be careful not to close programs you’re actively using).
Are You Skipping Regular Maintenance?
One-time fixes are helpful, but regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly. Schedule a weekly cleanup with Glary Utilities:
1. Open Glary Utilities.
2. Click the Schedule icon in the 1-Click Maintenance section.
3. Set a weekly schedule for automatic cleanups.
This keeps junk files, registry errors, and startup clutter under control with minimal effort.
Conclusion: Are You Ready to Boost Your PC’s Performance the Right Way?
Many common Windows performance problems can be solved by avoiding these simple mistakes. Regularly restarting, managing startup programs, cleaning up junk files with a user-friendly tool like Glary Utilities, keeping your system updated, scanning for malware, and optimizing your drives will keep your PC running faster and smoother. Make these steps part of your routine, and you’ll notice a real improvement in your everyday computing experience!