Help! My Computers Slow!! 💻

Written By Lauren Harris

Hello!

Last week, I asked Justin, our Lead IT Specialist: "What is the most common question people ask you?"

He shared that by far, the number one complaint he hears is: "Why is my computer so slow?"

So today we want to help you know the answer to that exact question. Here is five of the most likely reasons…

1. You’re Using an Old Hard Drive

Older computers use traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) to store files. They rely on physical, spinning parts that simply can't keep up with modern software.

  • The Fix: Swap it for a Solid-State Drive (SSD). SSDs use microchips (like a giant thumb drive) and make your computer instantly feel brand new.

2. Outdated Hardware

Just like a vehicle, computer parts wear out and get outdated. If your computer is more than 4 or 5 years old, it will struggle with today's software.

  • The Fix: It might be time to upgrade a few internal parts or start looking for a new machine.

3. Too Many Browser Tabs Open

Every open internet tab acts like a mental distraction for your computer, draining its short-term memory.

  • The Fix: Close the tabs you aren't using right now. Bookmark them if you need to save them for later.

4. Leaving Too Many Programs Open

Apps like Spotify, Zoom, or chat tools love to run quietly in the background without you realizing it.

  • The Fix: Completely close out of apps when you are done with them. Restarting your computer once a week also wipes the slate clean and shuts everything down.

5. Your Computer Doesn’t Meet Your Software’s Minimum System Requirements

Every program has minimum system requirements—the basic level of hardware needed for the software to run properly. If your computer doesn’t meet those requirements, the software may run very slowly, freeze, or crash altogether.

 

The Fix: Check the software’s recommended system requirements before installing it. If your computer falls short, upgrading your hardware or using less demanding software may improve performance.

Or call Justin. He’s an expert at IT. 505-278-5858 & 970-508-9797

- Lauren, Marketing Manager for ZiaTech

IT Specialist in Farmington.

Here is a photo of Justin and his family!

Lauren Harris
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