.png)
Few things are more frustrating than waiting for your computer to catch up with you. You click on a program, and nothing happens. You try to open a browser tab, and the spinning wheel mocks you. Before you know it, you're ready to throw your laptop out the window.
A slow computer wastes your time, hurts your productivity, and can really test your patience. The good news is that most slowdowns have simple causes and even easier solutions.
This guide covers the most common reasons your computer might be running slowly and explains how you can get it working better again.
1. Too Many Startup Programs
When you turn on your computer, dozens of programs might be launching in the background without you realizing it. (Speed Up Your PC: Addressing 10 Common Causes of Slowness, n.d.) These startup programs consume memory and processing power before you even open your first application.
How to fix it:
- Windows: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), navigate to the Startup tab, and turn off programs you don't need immediately.
- Mac: Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items and remove unnecessary applications.
Keep only essential programs like antivirus software and cloud storage services set to launch at startup.
2. Insufficient RAM
Random Access Memory (RAM) is your computer's short-term memory. When you run multiple programs simultaneously, your laptop needs enough RAM to keep everything running smoothly. If you're constantly maxing out your available RAM, your system will slow to a crawl. (Why Is My Computer Running So Slow and How to Fix It, n.d.)
How to fix it:
- Check your RAM usage in Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac).
- Close unnecessary programs and browser tabs.
- Consider upgrading your RAM if you regularly use memory-intensive applications like video editing software or games.
Most modern computers benefit from at least 8GB of RAM, though power users may need 16GB or more. (How much RAM Memory Does My Computer Need?, 2025)
3. Hard Drive Is Nearly Full
Your hard drive works best when it has enough free space. If storage drops below 10-15%, your computer can have trouble with basic tasks like creating temporary files or managing memory. (Fix Low Disk Space or Memory Issues, 2025)
How to fix it:
- Delete old files, downloads, and programs you no longer use.
- Move large files to external storage or cloud services.
- Use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup (Windows) or Optimize Storage (Mac).
- Empty your Recycle Bin or Trash regularly.
4. Outdated Operating System
Software updates do more than add new features. They also bring performance improvements and bug fixes that help your computer run smoothly.
How to fix it:
- Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install any available updates.
- Mac: Click the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update.
Set your computer to install updates automatically so you don't fall behind.
5. Malware or Viruses
Malicious software can take over your computer's resources and run background processes that slow everything down. (How does Malware Affect System Performance?, 2025) Some types are made to use your computer for things like cryptocurrency mining or other harmful activities. (Government websites dish malware in cryptocurrency miner attack, 2018)
How to fix it:
- Run a full system scan with reputable antivirus software.
- Remove any detected threats immediately.
- Install real-time protection to prevent future infections.
- Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.
6. Too Many Browser Extensions
Browser extensions can be useful, but each one uses some memory and processing power. Having just a few is fine, but too many can slow down your browsing a lot.
How to fix it:
- Review your installed extensions and remove ones you don't actively use.
- Chrome: Type chrome://extensions in the address bar.
- Firefox: Go to Menu > Add-ons and themes.
- Safari: Go to Safari > Preferences > Extensions.
Keep only the extensions that genuinely improve your workflow.
7. Fragmented Hard Drive (HDD Only)
If you're using a trIf you use a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), file fragmentation can make reading and writing data slower. (Understanding and Preventing HDD Fragmentation, n.d.) This happens when files are split into pieces and spread out across the disk. (What is File Fragmentation & How to Resolve It, n.d.)Windows: Type "defragment" in the search bar and run the Defragment and Optimize Drives tool.
- Mac: macOS handles defragmentation automatically, so manual intervention isn't necessary.
Note: Never defragment a solid-state drive (SSD). It does not improve performance and can actually shorten the drive's lifespan. (Does Defragmenting A Solid-State Drive Cause Data Loss?, 2025)
8. Overheating
Computers slow down when they get too hot to protect their hardware. (Why is my laptop overheating? + How to fix it, n.d.) Dust, blocked vents, or broken cooling fans can all lead to overheating.
- Clean dust from vents and fans using compressed air.
- Use your laptop on hard, flat surfaces rather than soft ones like beds or couches.
- Consider using a cooling pad for laptops.
- Check that internal fans are working properly.
9. Outdated Drivers
Drivers are programs that let your operating system talk to your computer's hardware. If drivers are outdated, they can cause problems and slow down your system.
How to fix it:
- Windows: Go to Device Manager, right-click on devices, and select "Update driver."
- Mac: Driver updates typically come through system updates.
- Visit manufacturer websites for the latest drivers for graphics cards and other critical components.
10. Background Applications and Processes
Some programs keep running in the background even when you are not using them, using up resources without you realizing it.
How to fix it:
- Open Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac).
- Sort processes by CPU or memory usage.
- Close any applications or processes you don't recognize or need.
- Be careful not to end critical system processes.
11. Old or Failing Hard Drive
Hard drives wear out over time. As they get older, they slow down and can develop errors. This is especially common with mechanical HDDs, which have moving parts that can fail. (Hard Disk Drive Failures, 2025)
How to fix it:
- Run diagnostics using built-in tools like Windows' Error Checking or macOS's Disk Utility.
- Consider upgrading to an SSD, which offers significantly faster read and write speeds. (SSD vs HDD Tested: What’s the Difference and Which Is Better?, 2023)
- Back up your data immediately if you suspect drive failure.
12. Demanding Visual Effects
Animations, transparent windows, and other visual effects may look good, but they use processing power that your computer could use for more important tasks.
How to fix it:
- Windows: Go to System Properties > Advanced > Performance Settings and choose "Adjust for best performance" or customize which effects to turn off.
- Mac: Go to System Preferences > Accessibility > Display and check "Reduce motion" and "Reduce transparency."
These changes will not make your computer look very different, but they can help it run better, especially if it is an older system.
Getting Your Computer Back Up to Speed
A slow computer usually has more than one cause. Often, several small issues add up over time. The good news is that you can fix most of these problems yourself without needing to pay for repairs or upgrades.
Begin with the easiest steps: close programs you do not need, restart your computer, and check for updates. If your computer is still slow, try more detailed fixes like cleaning up storage, scanning for malware, and managing startup programs.
Regular maintenance goes a long way. Set aside time each month to clean up files, update software, and check your system's health. Your future self will thank you for it.