How to Speed Up an Old Computer

Your old computer may still have some life in it. If you can't afford a new one there are a few low-cost steps you can take that will get it moving again.

1.  Add memory. Many older computers do not have their maximum memory installed. Do some research on your computer manufacturer's website and determine the maximum memory for your computer. There are many online memory sites that sell memory inexpensively. Many of these resellers also make free analysis programs available that can automatically determine how much and what type memory you need.

2.  Uninstall the software you don't need. If you are not going to use the programs again, get rid of them. They take up valuable hard drive space and may be running memory-resident programs that are no longer needed.

3.  Disable all startup programs you don't need. Years of installing and uninstalling software can leave a lot of memory-resident programs running that just aren't necessary. Try installing and using a utility program such as WinPatrol to help you manage these programs. Winpatrol is a great free program that finds all the 'hidden' startup programs.

4.  Turn off your virus protection software's real-time scanner. This really slows down older PC's. If you do this be sure that you schedule regular virus scans.

5.  Turn off Microsoft System Restore. This functionality is rarely used and eats up valuable system resources. Be sure that you do regular system backups if you choose to take this step.

6.  Clean up and defragment your hard drive. Get rid of all the old files you don't need and run your defragmentation program. Modern versions of Windows include defragmentation tools, there is no need to buy a separate program.

7.  Optimize your internet connection settings. There are free tools available at broadbandreports.com that can help you do this.

8.  Use system analysis software to determine what other changes to make. There are quite a few reputable free online performance scanners. One of the best is PC Pitstop. Tips & Warnings Don't try to do all these steps at once. Many of them will conflict with others. These steps have been ordered specifically to achieve the maximum benefit. Don't hurry! If you are not sure whether you can remove something without causing problems, do some research first.

More helpful safe computing tips can be found here: How to Identify Phishing Email

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