All computer users wish for a fast and reliable device that can cater to many functions. After all, PCs render productivity and entertainment value to individual owners. Nobody would want to spend minutes waiting for programs to load. Slow and lagging games are the bane of any gamer’s playtime. So, what can PC users do to improve the system’s performance?
It’s necessary to keep checking and managing the CPU performance. The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is the computer’s main processor. Any basic operation and function in the setup go through the CPU. Everything slows down when the CPU is slow and doesn’t perform at par with other parts. The good news is that you can increase the performance of this household processor without spending a single dollar.
Upgrading doesn’t automatically mean that users need to swap the hardware. If that’s the case, each performance upgrade can set you back hundreds of dollars. Simple things such as learning how to update drivers on Windows can already boost CPU performance. For more effective ways, consider these cost-free steps:
Allow the PC to rest
Always allow your PC to rest regularly. Long periods of use, like working and playing games, can gain a lot of heat for the hardware. Mismanaged heat and inefficient cooling systems can degrade your CPU. As such, always remember to turn off the computer from time to time.
When you want to power the system again, assess the speed. Resets close down all operations and functions, allowing for faster CPU performance. The CPU is like any person’s brain; it needs adequate sleep and rests to gain optimal function. Extended periods of use can lead to a decline in function eventually.
Adjust the settings in the PC
Open the settings of your system and check for the current system adjustments of the CPU. Sometimes, the CPU performance is slow because it is set to be slow. CPUs are more powerful and versatile than you think. You can always play around with the functions and put settings that work to minimize CPU use.
For Windows, go to the Control Panel and look for the Advanced System Settings. Check for the customized portion of the settings. Manually uncheck any option like visual effects, transitions and unnecessary graphics. These things can slow down the CPU processes to compensate and power pretty screens and extravagant displays.
Remove applications that are not in use
Over time, there may be a pile of applications, programs and software on the computer. These additional things take up space in the storage drive of the setup. It’s time to schedule regular checks so you can see these things that you don’t even utilize.
Clean and remove these applications to make up more space. Moreover, eliminating these applications will lessen the possibility of software running in the background without your knowledge. Unused programs, software or applications still take up resources even without use.
Avoid auto start-up of some programs
The computer can run operations and programs without your knowledge. Do you ever wonder how many apps run when you power on the CPU? Many things are already running around the background the moment you hit the power button.
For Windows, go to the Taskbar and inspect for currently running apps. You will see a list of applications that are currently functioning. The reason this happens is because of the installation settings. For most installation processes, part of the initial settings is the permission to auto-operate the programs. Right-click on the unnecessary programs and click disable.
Check for regular malware and spyware
Other files can ruin the speed and CPU performance. Everybody knows the term computer virus, malware or spyware. These dangerous data present in the system can take over and degrade computer performance. Make sure to check for these abnormalities in the system regularly.
Better yet, download an antivirus or scanner. Set these apps to function regularly and note when a potential threat can ruin the CPU performance. Among all things that you can do for free, one of the best things you can do is invest time. Always take the extra time to scan and identify malicious software lurking around. Delete these things immediately.
Sort and filter user files
Large user files can hamper the performance of the CPU. While you don’t need to keep checking every week, taking the opportunity to manage files can speed up the CPU. Moreover, it’s a period where you can free up space, so you don’t need to worry about usable storage in the system.
Check for personal files, programs, software, and applications. Remove and delete things you don’t need anymore. Furthermore, don’t forget to delete these large chunks of files in the recycle bin. Many users delete tons of files, only not to remember removing them for good from the recycle bin.
Inspect browser settings and conditions
Browsers can take up a lot of space and memory, and decrease CPU performance. Apply the same trick where you inspect the current settings and take the space of the browser. Reset these browsers as often as you can to turn the app into a clean slate.
Every time you open any browser, a lot of data and functions are already taking up resources. It’s best to keep resetting and removing potential slowdowns in the browser. Don’t forget to hit the “clear history” button on the tab.
Upgrade the drivers
Operating systems often require upgrades and updates to function properly. Manufacturers often release these drive updates and you must install them. The driver updates often provide solutions to current or recurring issues in the current driver version.
If there are loopholes and problems with the current version, the CPU slows down. Always check for regular updates in the settings of the PC. There are often notifications and reminders of update downloads that will remind you regularly.
Upgrade some hardware
All these tricks above are already cost-free. You need to power on the system and perform the steps. However, one other thing you can do will cost you some budget. Take it as an investment in the performance of the entire operating system.
Upgrade the hardware of the PC. All PCs have intended use and purpose for each user. Nevertheless, it’s not always all the time that the hardware can keep up with your intention. For example, if you intend to keep playing games, it’s best to invest in new parts.
Don’t expect games to run fast all the time when you have CPUs that are merely for typical productivity function and performance. Sometimes it pays off to upgrade the physical parts.
