24 - Performance 2Over time your computer feels slow because newer versions of programs tend to be hungrier for computer resources. One way to deal with this is to only install software that you absolutely need. Every program that is running on your computer is adding to your computer’s work load; the fewer programs that run, the faster your computer will be. Tangentially related: deleting items like pictures, documents, favorites, video’s and even temporary files, won’t make your computer any faster. It’ll just free up space on your hard drive.

You can gain a significant speed boost by upgrading your current computer’s hard drive to a solid state drive (SSD), if you don’t already have one. It’ll come with instructions and software for transferring your data from your old drive to your new one. Several things to keep in mind with this upgrade:

  1. Be sure your new hard drive has enough space for the amount of data you have and
  2. You may need to buy a 2.5” to 3.5” hard disk mounting bracket/kit if you’re upgrading a desktop.
  3. You’ll likely need a USB to SATA converter to clone your current hard drive to the new one.

Ways to speed up your computer

  • Don’t install programs unless absolutely necessary
  • Uninstall useless programs, or programs you don’t need any more
  • Upgrade your hard drive to a solid state drive (SSD)
  • If you’re going to buy a new computer, stay away from budget models