One way to fix a slow computer is by decreasing the number of programs running. There may be programs that are using a lot of processing power that you don’t even need. Keep reading to learn how to identify these programs and stop them from running.

Your computer might be getting bombarded by high-level apps that start automatically and run in the background, or maybe by a program you opened and then forgot to close.

Closing, or even removing unnecessary programs, can instantly speed up a slow computer.

To do this, simultaneously press Ctrl, Alt and Delete on your keyboard, and select Task Manager. On the Processes tab, you'll see which programs are open, and how much CPU and memory they’re using. You can then close any programs you're not using.

If there are programs you rarely use or no longer need that are using a lot of CPU or memory, you might want to consider uninstalling them.

Some computer programs automatically open when you start up your device. Disabling these startup programs is another way to speed up your computer.

Go back into Task Manager, and the Startup tab will show you any programs set to open when you start your computer. Consider what you really need to open automatically, then turn off the other programs using the Disable button in the bottom corner.

If your computer's running slowly while you surf the internet, you should make sure you're running the latest version of your web browser. If there’s an option to install new versions automatically, then enable it.

Another browser hack is to avoid having unnecessary add-ons and extensions. Depending on your browser, you should be able to find a menu called Add-ons or Extensions to view and delete any you no longer use.

HDDs save data in small groups across the disk. Over time, different pieces of related data end up spread all over the place. It then takes longer for the system to find each piece of data and bring it back together when you open a program or app.

Defragmenting (or defragging) your HDD will bring related bits of data back together which speeds up your system.

Note: SSDs do not need to be defragmented since their technology is entirely different than HDDs.

To defrag your HDD, click on the Start menu or Windows button, select Control Panel, then System and Security. Under Administrative Tools, click on Defragment your Hard Drive.

You can choose for the process to run on a regular schedule, or you can click Analyze Disk to determine if the process needs to be run immediately.

Identifying and replacing outdated hardware can make an older computer feel brand new! An upgrade can also be significantly less expensive than buying a new computer.Your storage drive and memory (RAM) are the two key pieces of hardware most related to the speed of your computer. A dated storage drive will slow down your performance, even when defragmented, while too little memory offers limited resources to run multiple programs. Before upgrading your memory, it’s important to take a look at what RAM is compatible with your computer.

The critical difference between a traditional HDD and an SSD is the technology behind it.

An HDD has moving parts, which mechanically move an actuator arm across a spinning platter to find each data portion. In contrast, an SSD accesses data near instantly using flash memory chips, retrieving things like documents, images and videos more quickly while using less power.

There are several varieties of SSDs you can explore to boost a slower PC. Crucial offers both internal NVMe SSDs and SATA SSDs. You'll need to consider a variety of factors such as compatibility, system requirements and budget before deciding which SSD is right for your system.

External SSDs offer many of the benefits of internal SSDs without the need to swap out the drive inside your computer. They can also be used with multiple systems and devices via an external USB cable.

Use the Crucial Upgrade Selector or System Scanner to find the right SSD to speed up your system.

Unlike the long-term storage of your SSD or hard drive, RAM acts as short-term storage, temporarily holding current data so that it can be quickly accessed.

Think of it as a desk where you have laid out the files, notes and tools that you are using right now.

Every time you do one of the following things, you're using RAM:

• Moving your mouse
• Opening and switching between internet browser tabs
• Typing an email
• Creating a spreadsheet
• Editing photos or videos
• Playing a game, listening to music or watching a video

The more RAM you have, the more of these tasks your computer can handle at once. Adding more memory is a straightforward way to fix recurring slowdowns.

Upgrading your memory may sound intimidating, but it's easy. With a screwdriver, your owner's manual and our how-to-install RAM guide, you’ll have new memory in your computer within a few minutes — no computer tech or prior knowledge required!