Windows 10 is Microsoft’s latest Operating System which is a vast improvement over its predecessor Windows 8. Unlike Windows 8, Windows 10 is faster and offers great features such as the return of a start menu and Cortana (Windows Personal Assistant). Although Windows 10 runs faster than previous versions, there are still some steps you can take to get the most out of your computer
Startup Processes
Reducing the number of startup processes can drastically improve the performance of your computer. To stop programs from running on start-up you can use the Task Manager. The Task Manager can be accessed by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting Task Manager, or by pressing the CTRL-SHIFT-ESC keys at the same time. You can then click on the Startup tab at the top of the Window which will give you a list of programs. These programs run silently in the background and will use your system resources.
It is recommended that you disable any of these programs that you do not recognise or do not use on a regular basis. By doing this step you are freeing up system resources meaning your Computer will run more efficiently.
Removing Bloatware
Manufactures such as Dell and HP like pre-installing laptops and desktops with “helpful” applications. Most of the time these applications do not get used and simply just get in the way. The main issue is that these applications will run in the background and in turn, will slow your computer down.
These applications can be removed by accessing the Add or Remove Programs section within the control panel. If you’re not sure which applications might be causing this, drop us an email or phone call and we will be happy to help.
Disk Defragging
Old laptops and computers may still be using the more traditional hard disk drive. The data on these drives can become fragments meaning it takes the drive longer to locate the various sectors which make up a file. AS a recommendation a disk defragmentation should be run once every 2 or 3 months.
Clean your Hard Drive
As your hard drive starts to get full you will notice that the speed of your computer will start to decline. Reducing the amount of unwanted or unused data on your hard drive will start to improve the performance of your computer. There is a free program called CCleaner which you can install onto your computer that will scan for any unwanted data and will give you the option to delete it.
CCleaner will also fix any registry errors on your computer. Windows Registry can cause your computer to run slower if not configured correctly. So, by keeping the registry cleaner you are ensuring that Windows 10 is running optimally.
