We’ve all been there - your laptop is working at a snail’s pace and you don’t know why. There can be several issues that are causing this, and the experts at Doha Laptops share some of them as well as helpful tips on how to fix them.
1. Malware
Malware is a broad term for any number of malicious software that may have been installed on your device. It can include viruses, spyware, and ransomware and can be installed on your laptop by opening a suspicious email or by downloading content from an untrusted source. Malware can be notoriously difficult to track because it installs itself in several places on your computer and then takes up memory and space on your laptop. Slowing down your device is just one of the symptoms - malware can also delete or transfer important files and open and close programs at will.
The first step in fixing this issue is running a virus scan. If malware is found, the next step is to get rid of it by yourself, or by taking it to an expert. We recommend the latter.
2. Running Out of RAM
Your laptop has a limited amount of RAM or Random Access Memory. Computers use RAM to temporarily store data that you’re currently using and the amount of RAM we need and use increases every year, as devices get more complex and require more temporary data storage. How much RAM you need depends on how you’re using your device.
After checking how much available RAM you have, you can install more RAM onto your computer to fix this issue. This should also be done by experts as it involves physically altering your device.
3. Running too Many Programs at Once
While technology today is incredibly powerful, a laptop can still get overwhelmed and slow down if you are running several programs and have dozens of tabs open in your browser, and are streaming HD videos to boot. Many apps run in the background automatically, also adding to this issue. You can choose which apps run in the background on both Mac and PC laptops.
Solving this issue is simple - close applications and programs you are not using and monitor which apps you allow to run in the background.
4. Dust
Sometimes the problem of a slow laptop may be an external one. Your laptop has fans inside that keep it cool and dust can slow down their function. Dust can clog these fans and restrict airflow which may slow down your laptop as your machine gets too hot and is no longer functioning to its full capacity.
Dust can be removed by brushing it away, using canned air, and using microfiber cloths to gently trap dust and remove it.
5. OS Needs Updating
From fixing security issues to removing outdated features, operating system updates keep your laptop running as it should be. When your laptop is functioning properly and has the latest operating system, it will also be running quicker. As digital technology evolves, so do operating systems and they should be upgraded every few years to ensure all software is working harmoniously with your laptop.
To fix this issue, simply update your operating system!
There are several other issues not mentioned here that may be causing your laptop to run slowly. Few things are more frustrating and counter-productive than a slow device. That’s why Doha Laptops provides the latest technology to our customers so that they never have to feel the pain of a slow laptop. Reach out to us to learn more about our services and technology and see if it’s the right fit for your company.
