12 Simple Ways to Boost Computer Performance in 2025
Is your PC operating slowly? Are you looking for methods to make your computer faster? You are not alone. Whether you want to accelerate your PC for gaming, enhance computer performance for work, or simply make your laptop operate quicker, we've got you covered. Here are tried-and-true ways for improving your computer's performance and getting it functioning like new again.
Download the best free PC speed up software for 2025 to improve performance
While you can make some.
There are several low-cost solutions to improve laptop performance. These optimization strategies can dramatically improve your PC's speed and overall performance.
Common causes of slow performance:
Before we go into fixes, let's figure out what's slowing down your computer.
Full hard drive.
Malware infections.
Insufficient RAM
Too many background programs.
Cluttered Startup Menu
Outdated hardware.
Software conflicts.
Fragmented hard disk.
unnecessary visual effects
Pending system updates.
Outdated device drivers
Let's look at how to make your PC operate quicker with these efficient computer speed tweaks.
HP Support Resources
Use these HP support resources to improve your PC's performance and fix frequent speed issues.
1. Hardware Solutions for Speeding Up Your Computer
The most effective technique to boost PC speed is via planned hardware upgrades. Consider these tried-and-true methods for increasing the speed of your computer:
Memory Upgrade: Using a RAM upgrade kit is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase computer speed, particularly for multitasking.
Storage Solution: An internal solid-state drive (SSD) may significantly boost computer speed and boot time. A portable external SSD connected via USB 3.0 can improve performance on laptop computers.
Adding extra RAM is very beneficial for speeding up machines running Windows 10 and 11. While current operating systems require less RAM than earlier generations, boosting RAM capacity is still an effective strategy to improve laptop performance.
It is easier and less expensive to add RAM to desktop PCs. Anyone with a rudimentary understanding of the guts of a desktop tower can install more RAM in an hour or two.
You may also take your computer to a professional shop to get additional RAM installed. If you're concerned about potentially compromising your system or doing it wrong, getting advice from someone who understands what they're doing will help relieve your mind and make adding more memory simple.
2. Uninstall any needless program.
Your computer comes packed with a slew of software that many people may never use but can chew up system resources. These apps can also generate unneeded files, slowing down the machine. You can typically spot them when you see a pop-up asking you to update an application you've never used before.
Remove them from your computer to free up disk space.
Click the "Start" button to access the "All apps" section.
You may see a list of the programs you've installed, as well as those you haven't.
Once you've located the software you wish to remove, right-click on its icon to access the "Options" option.
Alternatively, you may right-click on Start and select Programs and Features. Cortana, the Windows assistant, can also be useful because it has a search box where you can type "Programs.". From there, you can see which applications you've recently used and which are taking up the most space. After reviewing what is installed, you may determine which apps can be removed to optimize system performance.
You'll also want to understand which programs are necessary for your computer to function correctly and which may be removed. One of the reasons these apps slow down your PC is that they frequently launch automatically when you turn on your computer. These unneeded starting applications can be turned off to enhance performance.
If you are unsure whether you want these programs permanently deleted, you may take a closer look at the applications you wish to remove from the options listed above.
3. Limit the number of unneeded launch programs.
Similarly, you may control which apps launch when your PC boots up. Disabling unneeded starting apps can help to improve boot times and overall system efficiency. Windows 10 features an enhanced Task Manager that makes it easy to decide what should run in the background and what you may start on your own.
To open Task Manager, press Ctrl-Shift-Esc.
A popup will display, listing all of the programs you have installed on your computer.
It also provides a thorough breakdown of how much RAM each software needs when you boot up your computer.
To make a modification, just right-click on the application you wish to modify and instruct it not to execute unless ordered.
You may always modify the settings if you realize that software that is no longer operating is interfering with how you use your computer. If in doubt, restart your computer and test how it performs without particular software installed at launch.
4. Check for spyware and malware.
It's nearly hard not to pick up a virus when browsing the web, but the new Windows Defender program makes it easier than ever to detect malware that might be creating serious problems on your PC. Third-party tools are very simple to install and can be just as successful at eliminating any malware or viruses you may have acquired. Consider adopting a full PC optimization package that combines antivirus protection with performance-enhancing software.
Some programs are superior to others, while others may consume more space, causing performance concerns. Ideally, you want to discover software that is efficient and thoroughly eliminates malware without taking up too much space on your computer.
Consider installing two different types of software for computer performance monitoring. Malware removal solutions can address sluggish or obvious problems with performance or popups. However, you should look at programs that provide continuing protection while running in the background. Again, bear in mind that these antivirus applications take up space, so select one that is not meant to impair performance.
A little research can help you identify software that fits your budget or is compatible with your unique operating system. If you're downloading free software, make sure everything is compatible before installing it to avoid further speed difficulties.
5. Use Disk Cleanup and Defragmentation.
Every computer's hard disk contains a number of files and applications that have not been used in a long time or are no longer needed. Disk Cleanup may help you determine which software and data can be eliminated from your computer, freeing up disk space for programs you'll need. Disk Cleanup will help you clear up disk space by removing downloaded software files and other unwanted data.
It is really simple to use Disk Cleanup:
From the Start button search box, type Disk Cleanup, and you'll be taken to the software.
A short check will reveal the temporary files, installation apps, and websites that you haven't utilized or no longer require.
Users may also pick to clean up system files to discover more options, including the ability to remove system files like prior versions of Windows.
From there, it will automatically erase them and clear some space.
The efficiency of Disk Cleanup is determined by the amount of RAM on your PC, which might cause your computer to perform slower than normal. If this is the case, you may want to consider upgrading your device's RAM.
You should also plan disk defragmentation on a semi-regular basis to keep track of the amount of hard drive space you have. Windows has an Optimize Drives utility, which may be accessed via the Start button. There are also a few third-party tools that may assist you in getting rid of data you no longer need. These apps can help you delete software files that are no longer needed.
6. Consider a starting SSD.
When you wish to improve performance, a startup solid-state drive (SSD) might help relieve some of the processor's load when your computer boots up. If you use many apps at once or use picture and video editing tools, a startup drive can help these programs perform more smoothly and load faster.
SSDs are most often installed on desktop computers, although they may also be utilized in some laptop versions. If you don't have the option of utilizing an internal SSD, you may always attach an external SSD drive to your PC using USB 3.0. This drive can provide you with the extra push you need to complete activities at launch, as well as a boost for programs that require more temporary memory to function effectively.
Depending on how you use your PC, there are a variety of SSD alternatives that will fit your budget. Storage review websites may be useful sources of information when selecting the proper drive for your computer and ensuring that it is compatible with your operating system.
7. Optimize your network for gaming.
If you're a gamer suffering latency or sluggish connection rates, your network configuration might be to blame. While the suggestions above can assist in enhancing your computer's performance, online gaming is also significantly reliant on your internet connection. A gaming router may substantially enhance your gaming experience with capabilities such as
Quality of Service (QoS) settings for prioritizing gaming data
Multiple antennas enhance signal strength and coverage.
Optimized firmware to lower ping and latency.
can complement the other performance improvements you’ve made to your system, ensuring that both your computer and your network are optimized for the best gaming experience.
8. Take a look at your web browser.
Minor adjustments can often make a difference with the speed of your PC. Something as simple as which browser you use can slow down or speed up the rate at which web pages, videos, and images load. If you have been using a certain browser and notice that there is a lag time, consider an alternative to see if the loading speeds are better.
The type of browser you use is not the only thing that may be slowing down your computer when you’re using the web. If you have a full cache that has not been emptied in a while, then you’ll want to visit your settings and make sure that it’s empty.
Your cache comprises what you pick up when you are visiting various websites. Many sites use cookies in order to figure out your browsing habits and the ads you may click when you visit a site will leave one too. A cache holds these files as information and if you spend a lot of time online, these files can accumulate and cause your computer to run more slowly.
For even more browser optimization:
Disable or remove unnecessary extensions to free up processing power.
Consider using a lighter browser if you’re on an older machine.
Use browser optimization tools for advanced tweaks.
Fortunately, clearing your cache is an easy fix. There are two ways to do this in the more popular web browsers:
In Internet Explorer:
Visit “Internet Options.”
Click on the “General” tab.
Look for the “Browsing History” option.
Select “Temporary Internet Files” and “Website Data.”
Hit "Delete.”
In Chrome:
Visit “More settings.”
Select “More tools.”
Click “Clear browsing data.”
Note that Chrome allows you to delete data within a certain time period.
If you’ve never deleted the files in your cache before, you’ll want to select “All time.”
Check the boxes “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
Hit “Clear data.”
You should be warned that cookies can also include the autofill function in your search bar, so it is a good idea to have your favorite websites bookmarked just in case.
9. Adjust Visual Effects for Better Performance
Windows comes with many visual effects that can impact system performance, especially on older or less powerful machines. Here’s how to optimize them:
Open System Properties
Click on “Advanced system settings.”
Under Performance, click "Settings.”
Choose “Adjust for best performance” or customize individual settings.
This can significantly improve performance on older systems by reducing the processing power needed for visual effects.
10. Update Your Operating System and Software
Keeping your system and software up-to-date is crucial for maintaining optimal performance:
Enable automatic Windows updates.
Update your drivers, especially graphics and network drivers.
Keep all applications updated.
Consider using a driver update tool for easier management.
Some recommended PC optimization tools to help with these tasks include:
CCleaner
Glary Utilities
Advanced SystemCare Free
Ashampoo WinOptimizer
Iolo System Mechanic
When to Consider Further Upgrades:
Your computer is more than 5 years old.
You’re consistently running out of storage space.
You’re unable to run the latest software or operating systems.
Your PC doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for your daily tasks.
11. Optimize Windows Settings for Better Performance
Enable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can significantly reduce boot times:
Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
Click “Choose what the power buttons do.”
Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable.”
Check “Turn on fast startup” and save changes.
Configure Storage Sense
Go to Settings > System > Storage.
Toggle on “Storage Sense.”
Click “Configure Storage Sense or run it now” for more options.
Set up automatic cleanup schedules.
Adjust Power Settings
Go to Settings > System > Power & sleep.
Click “Additional power settings.”
Choose “High performance” or create a custom plan.
Use ReadyBoost.
For computers with traditional HDDs:
Insert a USB flash drive.
Right-click the drive in File Explorer and select "Properties.”
Go to the “ReadyBoost” tab and select “Use this device.”
Manage Windows Services
Type “services.msc” in the Start menu.
Research services you can safely disable.
Right-click services to modify their startup type.
Be cautious when disabling services.
12. Windows Troubleshooting and Reset Options
Use Windows Troubleshooter.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Select “Additional troubleshooters.”
Run the “Performance” troubleshooter.
Reset Windows
If other methods don’t help:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Under “Reset this PC,” click “Get started.”
Choose to keep your files or remove everything.
Follow the prompts to complete the reset.
Perform a Clean Install
For the most thorough solution:
Back up all important files.
Create Windows installation media.
Boot from the installation media.
Follow prompts for a fresh Windows installation.
In summary
If you are experiencing issues loading applications or simply dealing with slow computer performance, then it usually just takes some minor adjustments to make it run more efficiently. Using the Control Panel to manage system settings and uninstall unused programs can also enhance performance.
Make sure to double-check to see if there is malware, spyware, or a virus causing lags or slow speeds. After that, you can look into what else might be causing any issues so you can speed up, maintain, and check your computer performance to enjoy an overall better experience.
For more tips on optimizing your computer’s performance, check out our guide on
, which can complement the improvements you’ve made to your system.
If you’re considering upgrading your setup for better performance, explore our range of
designed to handle demanding tasks with ease.
Remember to maintain a regular maintenance schedule for these optimization tasks to keep your computer running at its best. Good computer habits combined with regular tune-ups can significantly extend your PC’s lifespan and maintain its performance.
About the Author
Daniel Horowitz is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Daniel is a New York-based author and has written for publications such as USA Today, Digital Trends, Unwinnable Magazine, and many other media outlets.