My PC Is Slow: 6 Simple Ways to Speed It Up

Before you begin

A slow PC almost always has a simple cause. This guide goes from the easiest fixes to the more advanced ones. Stop as soon as your PC is fast again.

• Time: from 30 minutes (software cleanup) to 1 or 2 hours (disk replacement).
• Level: easy for steps 1 to 4, medium for steps 5 and 6.
• Equipment: for steps 5 and 6, a small Phillips screwdriver, and depending on the case a compatible RAM module or SSD.
• Backup: copy your important documents and photos to an external hard drive or a USB stick before any work.

Step 1: lighten the startup

Too many programs launch at the same time as Windows. The PC slows down as soon as it starts.

1. Right-click the taskbar and open the Task Manager.
2. Look for the tab dedicated to startup ("Startup" or "Startup apps" depending on your version).
3. Disable programs you don't need at startup: music players, game launchers, app updates.
4. Restart the PC.

Mistake to avoid: do not disable your antivirus or any items whose name you don't recognize. If in doubt, leave them alone.

Step 2: freeing up space on the disk

A nearly full disk slows the PC down. Windows needs free space to work.

1. Open File Explorer and check the free space on your main drive.
2. Empty the Recycle Bin.
3. Uninstall the programs you no longer use, from the Windows settings (apps section).
4. Use the Disk Cleanup tool built into Windows to delete temporary files.
5. Move large files (videos, photos, films) to an external hard drive.

Mistake to avoid: never delete system folders at random (Windows, Program Files). Only delete your own files and programs you recognize.

Step 3: install updates

Pending updates or outdated drivers can cause slowdowns and bugs.

1. Open Windows settings, then the Windows Update section.
2. Run the update search and install the updates.
3. Restart, even if Windows does not clearly ask you to.
4. Also update your internet browser, which is often very resource-hungry.

Plug your laptop into the mains during updates. Do not turn it off during the operation.

Step 4: look for a virus

A virus or adware can greatly slow down a PC. Common signs: pop-up ads, a changed homepage, unknown programs.

1. Run a full scan with Windows Security (Microsoft Defender) or with your usual antivirus.
2. Let the scan finish. It may take a long time.
3. Delete or quarantine whatever is detected.
4. Uninstall any browser extensions you don't recognise.

Mistake to avoid: do not install several antivirus programs at the same time. They interfere with each other and slow down the PC even more.

Step 5: add more RAM

RAM keeps your programs open. If it runs short, the PC lags as soon as you open several tabs or applications. In Task Manager, check memory usage. If it stays very high during normal use, you probably need more RAM.

Before buying

• Check your PC's RAM type (for example DDR3, DDR4 or DDR5). It must match exactly.
• Check whether there is a free slot, or which memory modules to replace.
• Check your model's technical specifications or manual. On some laptops, the RAM is soldered and cannot be replaced.

Installation

1. Turn off the PC and unplug the power cable. On a laptop, also remove the battery if possible.
2. Press and hold the power button for a few seconds to drain any remaining electricity.
3. Touch a metal part of the case to discharge static electricity. Avoid wearing clothing that generates a lot of static.
4. Open the cover, locate the RAM slots.
5. Push aside the side clips, remove the old memory module if necessary.
6. Insert the new module in the correct orientation (the notch must line up) and push down until it clicks.
7. Close, reconnect and turn it back on.

Always hold the memory module by its edges, without touching the gold contacts.

Step 6: switch to an SSD

It is often the most effective upgrade. A classic hard drive is slow. An SSD makes Windows start and programs open much faster.

Prepare the upgrade

• Check the format supported by your PC: 2.5-inch SSD (SATA) or M.2 SSD. Check the technical specifications or open the case.
• Choose enough capacity for Windows, your programs and your files.
• Make a full backup of your data.
• Prepare a USB key to cleanly reinstall Windows on the new SSD, or a tool to copy the old disk.

The main steps

1. Switch off, unplug the power, discharge static electricity as for RAM.
2. Remove the old drive, or keep it if a second slot is free.
3. Install the SSD and secure it with the screws.
4. Install Windows on the SSD using your USB key, or copy the old disk onto it.
5. Restore your files from the backup.

Mistake to avoid: never start without a backup. A handling error can erase your data.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Opening the PC without unplugging it.
• Buying a part without checking compatibility.
• Installing unknown "speed-up" software, which is often useless or dangerous.
• Forcing a memory module or connector that won't fit: it's either not facing the right way or not compatible.

What if the PC is still slow?

A very old PC may have a processor that is too weak. If the slowness persists after these steps, it may be more sensible to replace the computer. A PC that gets very hot and is very noisy may also have a clogged fan: clean it with dry air, with the PC switched off and unplugged.

Frequently asked questions

Which step gives the best result?

For a PC with a classic hard drive, switching to an SSD usually brings the biggest improvement. If your memory is often saturated, adding RAM also helps a lot.

Will I lose my files if I change the RAM?

No, RAM does not store your files. For a disk replacement, however, backing up is essential.

How do you know which RAM or SSD to choose?

Find the exact model of your PC and check its technical specifications. They indicate the type of RAM and the disk format supported. Then choose an identical or compatible part.