Is my PC slow?

Question

I had Yahoo Toolbar and I removed it via the Add/Remove Program option in Control Panel, and nnow I want to know if it left anything that might slow down my PC, at least on the net.

Answer 1

Go to start, run. Then type msconfig, choose the startup tab. Uncheck all the boxes except the ones that relate to your ani-antivirus/security programs (understand the "path" and file each check-box controls before you uncheck). Remember, for each check box, that program starts when your computer does, and consumes more of its resources.

After that, download the demo/trial for Ashampoo WinOptimizer Platinum and find, in the advanced interface mode (or something like that), the registry cleaner. I did this after my computer was running really slow, and it sped up by like two, after the program corrected like 800 inconstancies or errors. I've used a lot of different registry cleaners, but that one has helped more than many.

Also, WinASO optimiser is great. It catches the errors Ashampoo does not, and has a registry defragmenter, which compacts all the fragmented segments in your registry, so they're not all spread out, taking longer to access. And while we're at defragmentation, defragment your drive. This will take a few hours, but will speed the PC up a bit. (Like the registry degragmenter, it will better organize how the files on your PC are layed out. It's a game of 52 pickup: you can find a specific card if you need -- they're all there, hopefully -- but it's easier if there' one, compact pile). Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools has the defragmenter.

After, use Adaware to scan for spyware, and scan for viruses using your antirus, first ensuring all updates are current.


Also, in that msconfig window, you might want to go to the services tab. Study all the running services, which are simply programs that start when your computer does, and don't stop monitoring it, and uncheck any you don't need. If you're unsure, google the title of the service -- something I'd recommend -- to find out Exactly what it's for, and if you need it. Don't do anything, of course, without fully understanding what why. You don't want to cause your computer to start acting loopy because it's missing something it needs.

If none of that helps, and uninstalling any programs you don't use often, or need, doesn't help, then yes... maybe it's time to upgrade your hardware. Put in more RAM, to start, and consider getting a better video card if you have a crappy one. A video card with "shared memory" will tap into your main memory when it runs out of its own. You can tell if it does this by looking at where the monitor input is. Is it very near to the other ports -- like the audio ports -- or is it kind of far away, or closer to the network antena or port area? If it's close to the audio ports and all.. it may be tapping into your memory.

Also, a slow hard drive will slow down how much you can do. What's the use of having a Corvette when all there is are dirt roads and cows?

Answer 2

NO! It should not slow down your PC but it could slow YOU down when using Yahoo. The effect is on you, not the PC.

Answer 3

How do we know if your computer is slow, if you don't provide any metrics? If you want to make your internet connection faster, then speak to your ISP. To make your computer faster, ensure you have enough RAM and upgrade the CPU.

Answer 4

no, that one comes off pretty clean, but watch closely what you install so you dont get tricked into stuff you dont want.

i use ad-aware SE for anything but viruses, Spybot for spyware, and AVG for viruses. you should also be using a firewall like Zonealarm