Is your computer taking forever to start, opening programs slowly, or freezing when you just want to check your email? You don’t necessarily need a new computer. Start with these simple checks, in order, before spending money. If you’re worried the slowdown could be malware, use our guide to checking for signs of a virus rather than buying a cleanup tool immediately.
1. Restart the computer
Choose Start → Power → Restart on Windows, or the Apple menu → Restart on a Mac. Restarting clears many temporary problems that build up when a computer stays on for days. Closing the laptop lid usually puts it to sleep; it doesn’t restart it. Learn more in our explanation of why turning devices off and on works.
2. Check whether one program is causing the slowdown
Close programs you aren’t using, especially lots of browser tabs. If the computer becomes fast again, reopen your programs one at a time. On Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and look at CPU, Memory, and Disk use. On a Mac, open Activity Monitor. A number briefly jumping high is normal; a program constantly using most resources is worth investigating. Save your work before closing anything.
3. Make some breathing room on the drive
A nearly full drive can make updates and normal work difficult. On Windows, open Settings → System → Storage. On a Mac, open System Settings → General → Storage. Remove items you recognize and no longer need, such as old installers or videos you’ve backed up. Empty the trash only after checking it. Don’t delete unfamiliar system folders or download a mystery “PC cleaner.” If you’re wondering where files went, see What Is a Download?.
4. Disable unnecessary startup apps
Some apps launch every time you sign in, even when you rarely use them. In Windows, go to Settings → Apps → Startup; on a Mac, go to System Settings → General → Login Items & Extensions. Turn off apps you recognize and don’t need immediately. Leave your antivirus, backup, and device-management software alone unless you know what it does.
5. Install normal Windows or macOS updates
Updates can fix bugs and improve reliability. In Windows, open Settings → Windows Update; on a Mac, check System Settings → General → Software Update. Save your work and restart when prompted. Avoid third-party “driver update” sites promising instant speed boosts.
6. Check for unwanted software and malware
Unexpected pop-ups, browser redirects, or unfamiliar programs may indicate unwanted software, but slowness alone does not mean you have a virus. On Windows, open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Quick scan. See our step-by-step Windows virus scan guide and guide to fake virus warning pop-ups. Never call a phone number shown in a scary browser alert.
7. See whether it’s actually the internet
If websites and streaming are slow but programs open normally, your computer might be fine. Test another website, try another device on the same Wi-Fi, and check your connection. Our Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide can help distinguish connection issues from a slow computer.
8. Check whether it gets hot
A computer that overheats may deliberately slow itself down to protect its components. Set a laptop on a hard surface instead of a blanket, make sure vents are clear, and listen for a fan running unusually loudly. Turn it off if you notice a burning smell or swelling. Don’t open the computer or block its vents.
9. Back up your important files
If a computer is slowing dramatically, freezing more often, making clicking or grinding noises, or failing to start, back up your photos and documents before attempting aggressive fixes. You can use an external drive and a reputable backup service. See our simple 3-2-1 backup guide. A backup is especially important before a repair shop replaces a drive.
10. Decide whether a hardware upgrade or replacement makes sense
Older computers with mechanical hard drives can often feel substantially faster with an SSD, if the model supports an upgrade. More memory can also help when you regularly run out of RAM, but not every laptop can be upgraded. Get an estimate before buying parts. A computer that no longer receives security updates may be better replaced than upgraded. Our laptop buying guide can help you avoid paying for features you won’t use.
A quick way to narrow it down
- Slow only when starting up? Try steps 1, 4, and 5.
- Slow only online? Start with step 7.
- Slow with lots of tabs open? Try step 2.
- Freezing, making strange noises, or losing files? Back up first, then seek help.
When to get help
If your computer keeps crashing, won’t update, won’t boot reliably, or remains painfully slow after these checks, a trusted technician can inspect its storage drive, memory, and cooling system. Don’t pay someone who appeared in an unsolicited pop-up to “repair” your PC.
The No Panic Tech takeaway: Most slow-computer troubleshooting starts with simple, reversible steps. Restart, check what’s running, confirm you have free space, and protect your files. You may not need a new computer at all.
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