How to Make Computer Run Faster: A Complete Guide to Better Performance

Updated on January 21, 2026, by Xcitium

Is your computer taking forever to start, freezing during simple tasks, or slowing you down when you need it most? You’re not alone. One of the most searched tech questions today is how to make computer run faster, and for good reason. A slow computer hurts productivity, increases frustration, and can even introduce security risks if systems fall behind on updates.

Whether you’re a business leader, IT manager, cybersecurity professional, or everyday user, improving system performance doesn’t always require buying new hardware. This guide explains how to make computer run faster using proven, safe, and effective methods—while also improving stability and security.

Why Computers Slow Down Over Time

Before fixing performance issues, it’s important to understand what causes them.

Common Reasons a Computer Runs Slow

• Too many startup programs

• Limited RAM or disk space

• Outdated software or drivers

• Malware or unwanted background apps

• Long system uptime without maintenance

Understanding these factors helps you apply the right solutions when learning how to make computer run faster.

How to Make Computer Run Faster: Start With the Basics

Some of the most effective improvements are also the simplest.

Restart Your Computer Regularly

Restarting clears memory, resets background processes, and resolves temporary issues. Many users keep systems running for weeks, which leads to performance degradation.

A restart is often the fastest way to improve PC performance immediately.

Keep Your Operating System Updated

Updates are not just about features—they include performance improvements and security fixes.

• Enable automatic updates

• Restart after updates install

• Avoid running unsupported OS versions

Keeping systems updated helps make laptop faster and safer.

Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Startup programs consume resources before you even start working.

How to Reduce Startup Load (Windows)

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc

2. Open Task Manager

3. Click the Startup tab

4. Disable non-essential programs

Reducing startup apps significantly improves boot time and overall responsiveness.

Free Up Disk Space to Improve Performance

Low disk space slows down system operations.

Simple Ways to Free Disk Space

• Delete temporary files

• Empty recycle bin

• Uninstall unused software

• Move large files to external storage

Maintaining free disk space is critical when optimizing how to make computer run faster.

How to Make Computer Run Faster by Managing RAM

RAM plays a major role in performance.

Check Memory Usage

Open Task Manager → Performance → Memory to see real-time RAM usage.

Ways to Free Up RAM Memory

• Close unused applications

• Limit browser tabs

• Disable memory-heavy background tools

If RAM is consistently maxed out, upgrading memory may be necessary.

Optimize Browser Performance

Web browsers are often the biggest performance drain.

Browser Speed Optimization Tips

• Remove unused extensions

• Clear cache periodically

• Limit open tabs

• Update browser regularly

A faster browser directly improves overall computer responsiveness.

Scan for Malware and Unwanted Programs

Malware is a hidden cause of slow systems.

Why Malware Slows Computers

• Runs background processes

• Consumes CPU and memory

• Communicates over the network

• Disables system protections

Running regular security scans helps protect systems while making them faster.

Adjust Visual Effects for Performance

Modern operating systems use visual effects that consume resources.

How to Reduce Visual Effects (Windows)

1. Search Performance Options

2. Select Adjust for best performance

3. Apply changes

This step alone can noticeably speed up Windows computers, especially older systems.

How to Make Computer Run Faster by Updating Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause slowdowns and instability.

Key Drivers to Update

• Graphics drivers

• Storage drivers

• Network adapters

Updated drivers improve compatibility, speed, and security.

Reduce Background Applications and Services

Many applications run silently in the background.

How to Identify Resource Hogs

• Open Task Manager

• Sort by CPU or Memory usage

• End unnecessary processes

Reducing background load is a proven way to improve PC performance.

Upgrade Hardware When Software Fixes Aren’t Enough

Sometimes optimization reaches its limit.

Hardware Upgrades That Boost Speed

• Upgrade HDD to SSD

• Add more RAM

• Replace aging hardware

SSD upgrades, in particular, provide dramatic speed improvements.

How to Make Laptop Run Faster on Battery

Power settings affect performance.

Optimize Power Settings

• Switch to High Performance mode

• Disable battery saver during heavy tasks

• Adjust background app permissions

Balancing power and performance ensures smooth operation on laptops.

Improve Performance Through System Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps computers running efficiently.

Maintenance Best Practices

• Restart weekly

• Clean temporary files monthly

• Review startup programs quarterly

• Update software consistently

Maintenance prevents performance degradation over time.

Performance and Cybersecurity: Why Speed Matters

Slow systems aren’t just annoying—they’re risky.

Security Risks of Slow Computers

• Missed security updates

• Disabled protections to improve speed

• Delayed threat detection

Optimizing performance supports better cybersecurity outcomes.

How IT Teams Improve Computer Performance at Scale

Businesses manage performance across many systems.

Enterprise Optimization Strategies

• Automated updates

• Centralized monitoring

• Standardized configurations

• Endpoint security optimization

Performance management is a core IT responsibility.

Common Myths About Making Computers Faster

Myth 1: Cleaning the registry always improves speed

Reality: Registry cleaners often cause more harm than good.

Myth 2: More apps mean better productivity

Reality: Background apps slow systems significantly.

Myth 3: New hardware is always required

Reality: Optimization often solves performance issues.

Understanding these myths helps users make smarter decisions.

When a Slow Computer Signals Bigger Problems

Sometimes performance issues indicate deeper trouble.

Warning Signs

• Frequent crashes

• Overheating

• Disk errors

• Persistent lag after reboot

These may require professional diagnosis or hardware replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How often should I restart my computer?

At least once a week, or more often for heavy usage.

2. Will clearing cache make my computer faster?

Yes, especially if storage is nearly full.

3. Is it safe to disable startup programs?

Yes, as long as you avoid system-critical services.

4. Can antivirus software slow down my PC?

Poorly optimized tools can. Use lightweight, efficient security solutions.

5. How do I know if I need more RAM?

If memory usage stays above 80% during normal tasks, consider upgrading.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Computer Faster the Smart Way

Learning how to make computer run faster doesn’t require advanced technical skills or expensive upgrades. With consistent maintenance, smart settings, and proper security, most systems can regain speed and reliability.

Performance optimization isn’t just about convenience—it’s about productivity, security, and system longevity.

Improve Performance and Security Together

Gain better visibility into system behavior, resource usage, and security threats across your environment.

👉 Request a demo now:
https://www.xcitium.com/request-demo/

Because a faster computer is only valuable when it’s also secure.