A Basic Guide to Diagnosing a Slow Windows PC
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Don't worry! In this guide, we will walk you through the process of diagnosing your slow computer, even if you are a new user.
We will assume that you can boot into Windows, but everything is running slowly.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
To start, we need to open Task Manager.
There are multiple ways to do this:
1. Right-click on the windows start button (located on the horizontal toolbar bar at the bottom of your screen), then click on "Task Manager" from the context menu.
OR
2. Press the following keys simultaneously: Ctrl + Shift + Escape.
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Once the Task Manager window opens, you may see a simplified view. To access the full view, click on "More details" located in the bottom-left corner of the window.
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In the expanded Task Manager window, select the "Performance" tab.
Here, you will see a list of your computer's components, such as the CPU, memory (RAM), and hard drive.
Check if any of these components are at or near 100% utilization – this could be the source of your slow PC.
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Issue: CPU at 100%
If your CPU is maxed out, it may be time for an upgrade. If you have a desktop computer, check if there is a compatible CPU upgrade for your motherboard. If you have a laptop, you might need to consider replacing it with a newer model, as most laptops don't have upgradable CPUs.
Issue: Memory maxed out
If your RAM is at or near 100% utilization, consider upgrading it. To find out the maximum amount of RAM your system can handle, you can use websites like Crucial or check your computer's online manual if you know your model number.
Issue: Disk at 100%
If your hard drive is at 100% utilization, you can use tools like CrystalDiskInfo or HD Tune to run a S.M.A.R.T. check on your hard drive. If your hard drive is failing, you should replace it. We recommend installing a solid-state drive (SSD) for a significant performance increase.
By following these steps, you can identify the cause of your slow Windows PC and take appropriate action to improve its performance.