A slow computer does not always need replacement. Many performance issues can be resolved with free maintenance steps that bring aging hardware back to life.
Start with a restart. It sounds obvious, but many people put their computers to sleep rather than shutting down. A proper restart clears memory, applies updates, and resolves temporary issues that accumulate over time.
Check which programs launch at startup. Many applications add themselves to the startup list, slowing boot times and consuming resources in the background. On Windows, Task Manager shows startup impact. On Mac, check System Settings under Login Items.
Free up storage space. When your drive is nearly full, performance suffers dramatically. Delete large files you no longer need, empty the recycle bin, and clear browser caches. Both Windows Disk Cleanup and Mac Storage Management tools identify space-wasting files.
Malware and unwanted software can significantly slow your computer. Run a scan with Windows Defender or install the free version of Malwarebytes for a thorough check. Remove any programs you do not recognize or use.
Browser extensions are a common culprit for perceived computer slowness. Each extension consumes memory and processing power. Disable or remove extensions you do not actively use, especially those you do not remember installing.
If your computer has a traditional hard drive rather than an SSD, the single most impactful upgrade is switching to an SSD. While not free, this hardware change can make a five-year-old computer feel like new for under 50 dollars.
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