Too Many Programs Running at Startup

Many apps launch automatically when your computer boots, using memory before you even start working.

The Fix:

• Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Startup tab → Disable unnecessary apps.

• Mac: System Settings → General → Login Items → Remove unneeded apps.

Low Storage Space (Especially on SSDs)

When your hard drive or SSD is almost full, the system struggles to manage temporary files and performance drops.

The Fix:

• Delete old files, downloads, and unused apps.

• Empty recycle bin or trash.

• Move photos/videos to an external drive or cloud storage.

Too Many Browser Tabs Open

Each browser tab uses memory. If you have 20–30 tabs open, your system may lag.

The Fix:

• Close unused tabs.

• Use tab-suspender extensions to pause inactive tabs.

• Clear browser history and cache.

Not Enough RAM

Older computers with 4GB or less RAM often struggle with modern apps, especially Chrome or multimedia software.

The Fix:

• Upgrade to 8GB or 16GB RAM if your computer supports it.

• Close heavy applications when not needed.

Outdated Software or Operating System

Outdated OS or apps can cause glitches, slow performance, and compatibility issues.

The Fix:

• Install the latest Windows, macOS, and app updates.

• Enable automatic updates for security patches.

Malware or Unwanted Background Programs

Viruses and unwanted apps can secretly run in the background, consuming CPU and RAM.

The Fix:

• Run a full antivirus scan.

• Uninstall suspicious programs.

• Use built-in tools like Windows Defender Offline Scan.

Overheating Issues

When your computer overheats, it reduces performance to cool itself down—this is called thermal throttling.

The Fix:

• Ensure proper airflow around your laptop.

• Clean dust from vents and fans.

• Use a laptop cooling pad.

Old or Failing Hard Drive

Traditional HDDs slow down with age and are much slower than SSDs.

The Fix:

• Check drive health (Windows: chkdsk, Mac: Disk Utility).

• Upgrade to an SSD for a massive speed boost.

Background Apps Eating CPU

Some apps or services run continuously in the background—cloud sync apps, widgets, game launchers, etc.

The Fix:

• Windows: Task Manager → check CPU/Memory usage.

• Mac: Activity Monitor → find resource-heavy apps → quit them.

Outdated or Corrupted Drivers

Old graphics, audio, or network drivers can slow down performance or cause stutters.

The Fix:

• Update drivers through Device Manager (Windows).

• Use official manufacturer tools (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).

Too Many Installed Programs

Over months or years, your computer accumulates unnecessary software.

The Fix:

• Uninstall programs you don't use.

• Delete trialware or bloatware from new PCs.

Your Computer Is Simply Old

If your PC is more than 7–10 years old, its hardware may no longer meet modern requirements.

The Fix:

• Upgrade components (SSD, RAM) if possible.

• Consider replacing the computer if upgrades don’t help.

Bonus Quick Fixes

• Restart your computer (most people forget this!).

• Turn off visual effects on Windows.

• Disable background sync for OneDrive/Google Drive if not needed.