How to Speed Up a Slow Computer: 10 Proven Tech Tips for Windows Users

Infographic showing 10 proven tech tips on how to speed up a slow computer for Windows users

Is your computer acting slow? You’re not alone. Many Windows users search for how to speed up a slow computer every day. Don’t worry—you’ve got this. No tech degree needed! Simply follow the steps in this guide—it’s easier than you think! We’ll show you how to clean your PC, make it run faster, and keep it that way. Let’s get started!

"A slow computer doesn’t mean the end—it just needs a little care, cleanup, and the right tools to feel brand new again."

— Alex Carter, Tech Writer

Remove Unused Programs
Turn Off Startup Apps
Clear Disk Space
Keep Windows Updated
Scan for Viruses
Change Visual Settings
Use Windows Tools
Add RAM or SSD
Reset Without Losing Files
Clean Inside and Out

List of methods to speed up a slow Windows 10 computer, including system cleanup and app management

1. Remove Unused Programs

How to fix a slow computer Windows 10? Start with this!

Unused apps clutter up your PC, hogging storage and dragging down performance—and many keep running in the background without your knowledge.

What to do:

Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
Delete anything you don’t use.

Even removing just a few apps can speed up your PC free.

2. Turn Off Startup Apps

Does your computer take longer to start than your morning coffee to brew?

When too many apps open with Windows, your PC gets slow right away.

Fix it like this:

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Click Startup tab.
Right-click and disable unneeded apps.

This is a quick win for how to speed up a slow computer Windows 10.

Illustration of cleaning up disk space to make a slow Windows computer run faster

3. Clear Disk Space

Freeing space = faster PC

A full drive slows your system down. You can fix this without buying anything.

Try this:

Use Storage Sense (Settings > System > Storage).
Run Disk Cleanup from the Start Menu.
Delete large files from Downloads or Trash.

Want to speed up your slow PC? Here's how to clean it up and get it running like new. This is step one.

4. Keep Windows Updated

Updates fix bugs and make things faster

Old versions of Windows can have issues that slow down your PC.

Do this:

Go toSettings > Windows Update.
Click Check for Updates.

Keeping your system fresh is a key part of how to speed up a slow computer.

Diagram of virus and malware scanning to fix a slow computer on Windows 10

5. Scan for Viruses

Hidden threats make your PC slow

Viruses and malware often run in the background, draining power and memory.

How to check:

Open Windows Security.
Click Virus and Threat Protection.
Run a Full Scan.

This is a must-do when trying to fix a slow computer Windows 10.

6. Change Visual Settings

Looks nice, but slows you down

Fancy animations and effects can be heavy on older computers.

To change them:

Go to This PC > Properties > Advanced System Settings.
Under Performance, click Settings.
Choose Adjust for best performance.

This tweak helps if you want to speed up a slow computer on a budget.

7. Use Windows Tools

Your PC has tools to help already

You don’t need extra software. Did you know Windows has free tools to make your computer faster?

Use these:

Task Manager: See what's using memory.
Resource Monitor: Dig deeper into performance.
Performance Monitor: Analyze long-term issues.

These tools answer the big question: How do I find out what is slowing down my PC?

Visual guide showing RAM upgrade and SSD switch to improve slow PC performance

8. Add RAM or SSD

Hardware = Big performance boost

If your PC still lags, it might be time for a little upgrade.

Why it helps:

More RAM helps with multitasking.
An SSD loads files much faster than a normal hard drive.

This option isn’t free, but it really works. A great trick if you keep asking, Why is my PC so laggy?

9. Reset Without Losing Files

Start fresh, keep your stuff

If nothing else works, reset your system. You keep your files, but Windows starts over.

Steps:

Go to Settings > Recovery.
Click Reset This PC.
Choose Keep My Files.

This is a final step for those serious about how to clean up computer to run faster Windows 10.

10. Clean Inside and Out

Dirt and clutter = slow PC

Too many icons or a dusty fan can also cause problems.

Digital clean-up:

Delete files from Desktop.
Clear browser cache.
Empty the Recycle Bin.

Physical clean-up:

Use compressed air on your keyboard and vents.
Keep your workspace clean and cool.

Combine digital and physical cleaning for the full fix.

You don’t need to live with a slow PC. By using the tips above, you now know how to speed up a slow computer without stress. Most of the tricks are easy and free. You just need to start with one and keep going. Clean your files, turn off extra apps, update your system, and—if needed—upgrade your hardware. Your computer will thank you!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my slow computer faster? +

To make your slow computer faster, start by removing apps you don’t use. Clear old files, and stop programs from starting when your PC turns on. These steps are easy, free, and can quickly help your computer run better.
How to clean up your PC to make it run faster? +

To make your PC run faster, start by removing files you no longer need. Try using built-in tools like Storage Sense to clear up space. Don’t forget to check your Downloads folder and Recycle Bin. A light system works much quicker.
Why is my PC so laggy? +

Your PC might lag if there are too many things running at once. It can also happen if you have little memory or if your computer is too warm. Closing extra apps and giving your system a break can help a lot.
How do I find out what is slowing down my PC? +

Open Task Manager and check the apps that use the most memory or CPU. You can also try Resource Monitor. These tools help you see which programs slow your system, so you can turn them off and speed things up.
How to clean up computer to run faster Windows 10? +

To clean up computer to run faster Windows 10, remove extra apps, clear browser files, and run Disk Cleanup. Turn off startup apps and keep your system updated. These simple steps can make your Windows PC work like new.