Unlike something mechanical, like a car, the operational parameters of a computer can be reconfigured with almost unlimited potential. Using the right programming, one can optimise it for anything from engineering to music and graphics, at a reasonable speed.

However, like a car, which can be optimised within its function – driving, and not climbing a wall – to go faster than originally intended, to a certain point, a computer is also limited by the hardware in just about the same way. Inasmuch as a slow computer can run faster with more efficient programming, what gets in the way, is our current level of technology.

Therefore, for now, we have to do what we can with what we have. Fortunately, that is a lot!

Malware, Spyware, and Trojans

This will hardly come as a surprise to anyone, but software takes up processing power. Removing unnecessary software that is constantly running is understandably the first step to availing more power to the system. Malicious software not only takes up resources, but it increases the threat of compromising user security.

The good news is that, generally, users are becoming more aware of this threat, and developers are becoming better at securing their systems against attacks. If you think malicious software might be slowing down your computer, there are several free and easy to use security applications available.

The best way to secure yourself is to not to install the offending software in the first place: do not download and install software from unknown developers, do not open .EXE or .DMG files you did not mean to download, do not add sketchy toolbars, screensavers, add-ons or plug-ins. If you notice sluggish behaviour, check the activity monitor of your system to see if there is weird software operating in the background.

Defragmentation – Still Useful?

The current generation still remembers taking the time to run a disk defrag on the HDD occasionally. Windows, Apple, and Linux used a different filing system that did not fragment the available space as much.

Newer Windows versions, as well as the general increase in hard drive speed, has almost done away with the need for occasional defragmentation, both by improving the filing system and having automatic defragmentation running in the background.

However, it can still be a beneficial action to take if you notice some files are slow to respond. The hard drive itself is actually one of the main bottlenecks of a modern computer, which takes us to the next solution.

Easy Upgrade

Installing a new hard disk is by far the most cost-effective and efficient way to improve a reasonably new computer. A close second is to upgrade the RAM, but the standard 4GB should be enough for most normal applications. However, if the hard disk is slow, an abundance of RAM will not make a difference.

The reason for this upgrade is that many standard computers come supplied with bad quality hard disks, especially laptops. An SSD will make so drastic a change in the speed of a computer that it can feel brand new again. The downside is that for laptop owners, replacing the hard disk requires tools and steady hands.

On desktop computers, however, adding or changing a hard disk can take as little as a minute. If you are thinking of buying a new computer, give special attention to the specifications of the hard disk: 5400 rpm should be avoided, and even if it is an HDD with 7200 rpm. You should read up on the specific product to make sure it will stay optimal for a while. If your potential new computer supplied with an SSD, you can feel safe for a while. Just make sure it has enough space available for what you are using it for!

Take Care of Your Electronics

Besides avoiding drops, spills, and other accidents, clearing out dust from the air filter is a good way of preventing the processor from overheating. Do not place a desktop in an unventilated cupboard and always use a bag when you travel with your laptop.