Slow Computer? Here’s Some Advice
Does your computer move at a snail’s pace nowadays? Is it driving you crazy? If your computer seems to be getting slower and slower all the time, chances are that it’s bogged down with what many of us, in our industry call, bloatware. Or, it could have a virus or malware program running that you’re not aware of.
Image: freedigitalphotos/imagerymajestic
When you download a game or a ‘so-called’ free software package, you may have been asked to install a toolbar that looked like fun. Or, you may even have been given the option to add a program to help you speed up your computer. These could be adding to the problem. In many cases, people have several programs installed that provide ads, that gather information (spy ware) , or that use your system’s resources without your knowledge (malware). Over time it can make your computer slow to a crawl and seem almost unusable. You may also have viruses you’re not aware of that came in through a trojan horse proggram. Viruses don’t always totally debilitate your system — sometimes they just slow it down or add pop-ups and other nuisances.
Beyond being inconvenient, it could also be causing other problems you’re not aware of. Your computer could be open to hackers who leverage your resources and your identity online (for unscrupulous activities) and it could put you at risk of having your webcam controlled remotely as well as other issues, too. When some people who download movies online or copy music and other programs from shareware sites few realize the level of vulnerability they’ve opened themselves up to.
Here are some tips:
- Always read fine print before installing programs. It’s usually better to spend a bit of money purchasing legitimate software licenses versus visiting piracy sites where you are going to open yourself up to potential problems from hackers.
- Keep your antivirus software up to date. (Make sure you’re using a decent antivirus program, too. Reviewing your options is wise.)
- Consider a hardware upgrade. If you have a 5 year old computer but use your computer for gaming and many resource-intense applications it’s probably time to upgrade your system and add memory, for examplPreview poste.
- Consider a periodic cleaning. There are software packages that can do this for you but you may also opt to send your computer to us at Advanced Technology Solutions. We can spend a few hours with your computer and get it running at optimal condition again, ensuring that you aren’t inadvertently putting your identity as risk, too.
Want to know what’s slowing your system down?
Talk to us about computer repair services. We can speed up your system, remove viruses, and do repairs, too. We also offer ipad and iphone repair and more.
(image: freedigitalphotos.net)
