Working with a hanging / freezing / slow start up computer can be time consuming as programs/ applications take a long time to starting up and loading. This problem is more pronounced in computers which have been used for 6 or more months.
How to fix it
1.Check the programs running in the background. Most computer users need only a few basic programs but many other programs are loaded as a default by the computer/application manufacturer. Many antivirus programs run in the background and slow down the computer. you need to stop them by following these guideline below. go to
Start==>Run==>type "msconfig" ==>and remove all programs which are not oftenly used or in the boot up unecessarily. You will have to reset the computer. Also go to control panel==>add/remove programs ==>and remove all non-essential software. Use LIUtilities.com to check for files that you don't understand there function. some are system files and very necessary for your computer to run.
2. De-fragment your computer hard drive. Click on the "My Computer" icon on the desktop. (for Windows XP) and run disk cleanup first. Then go to Tools and Defragment the hard disk drives (HDD) on your computer.
It is advisable to defragment the HDD at least once a week, (It is automatic in Windows Vista). especially if large amounts of data eg video are being downloaded from the internet. Delete all cookies and downloaded files.
3. Ensure that there is sufficient free space on the hard disk (HDD ) where the operating system is loaded. Free space is required as virtual memory. Delete all unwanted files and transfer all large files / folders to other data storage media.
4. You may have a virus, spyware, trojan or adware on your computer. First remove all spyware, adware and virus by running antivirus program or manually . Most viruses can be cleaned or quarantined by antivirus programs
5. Ensure that the latest device drivers are installed on your computer. The latest device drivers are usually available at both the computer and component manufacturers website. You can update windows too. If you are not using a particular device, you can disable it too.
6. Add more memory. If your computer does not have sufficient memory or the memory is damaged, your computer will become slow. Windows XP needs at least 128 MB RAM, Vista require more than 256 MB RAM and 512 MB RAM is recommended for optimum performance.
7. Reformat hard disk.If none of the above options work, you may have to reformat the hard disk and install the operating system again.
8. Clean your computer from dust and corrosions. concentrate on cleaning RAM,fan and motherboard since dust build up causes the computer to heat up fast.
