Common Causes of a Slow Computer

It’s almost funny to think that as computers become faster and faster, we tend to have more and more problems with them slowing down. We know how frustrating slow computers are, especially when seemingly simple actions slow to a crawl, such as when email takes half an hour to load. If you are experiencing a similar problem (though hopefully not as extreme), then you have probably asked yourself “what are the causes of a slow computer?” This primer will give you some of the most common reasons that your high tech computer can slow down to a snail’s pace.

Common Causes of a Slow Computer: Adware and Spyware

Adware and spyware can eat up a lot of bandwidth and CPU effort. These programs are small, but they can cause big problems. Adware slows your computer down by sending information from an outside party to your computer in the form of pop-ups and other annoying ads. Spyware is often even more intrusive and problematic because it gathers information about your activity and sends it to an outside party.

Solutions to Adware and Spyware Problems

Luckily the solution to most adware and spyware problems is pretty simple: download an adware remover program. These programs sweep your computer to find troublesome files and eliminate them. It’s important to update your remover often to make sure that it can catch the latest adware and spyware programs.

Common Causes of a Slow Computer: Viruses and Worms

Viruses and worms will also eat up a lot of CPU time, thus slowing your computer down to a crawl. I’ve found that the worst viruses and worms are those that take over your computer to perform a task for an outside party. The task usually involves something illegal like spamming or harassing business owners by attacking their web sites. These activities can take place without your knowledge. Other than a slow computer, you might not notice that anything is wrong.

Solutions to Viruses and Worms

You can avoid viruses by making sure that you trust the source of every file that you download. You don’t have as much control over worms, though, so download a program that will scan your computer for nefarious files. These programs are very similar to the adware removers, but they are designed to hunt down viruses.

Common Causes of a Slow Computer: Using too Many Programs at Once

Worms, viruses, adware, and spyware are all nasty problems primarily caused by outside forces. One of the most common causes of a slow computer, though, is running too many programs at once. This is especially common among computer users who don’t have a background in technology.

Today’s computers are designed to run several programs at once, but each one slows your machine down a little bit. Even if you aren’t using the programs, they can still cause a slow computer. Make sure that you don’t have any icons that indicate your computer is running unnecessary programs. A lot of operating systems turn on programs as soon as you start your computer. It’s important to shut these programs down if you want your computer to function quickly.