Fix Slow Computer

Question

Does Microsoft have a program or procedure for fixing or scanning for issues that affect a Slow computer like I've seen on commercial sites to scan for and fix said problem. The commercial sites download and scan are free and they say they fix the first 10 issues free but to get the complete fix will cost. Am I wrong in assuming the people who write these Windows programs and software would also have a proper solution? I have deleted unused programs, disabled start-up features, scheduled maintenance, disabled Windows appearance settings, Windows Updates are current, security programs are current and I am cautious of websites and unknown E-mails. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Anything which promises to speed up your PC should be avoided. Anything which promises to speed up your PC by cleaning the registry should most definitely be avoided.

Use just one anti-virus solution..

You can get Bitdefender free here. http://www.bitdefender.com/solutions/free.html 

or Microsoft Security Essentials from here.. http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/mse.aspx

Alongside, you should have Malwarebytes..

http://www.malwarebytes.org/

When installing it, ensure that you don't check the box to install the trial PRO version. This will not only stop it real-time monitoring and thereby interfering in the normal operation of your primary a-v solution, it will also not prompt you to buy the full version at the end of the PRO trial period. 

How to use Malwarebytes

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/virus-removal/how-to-use-malwarebytes-anti-malware-tutorial

Answer 2

Does Microsoft have a program or procedure for fixing or scanning for issues that affect a Slow computer like I've seen on commercial sites to scan for and fix said problem. The commercial sites download and scan are free and they say they fix the first 10 issues free but to get the complete fix will cost. Am I wrong in assuming the people who write these Windows programs and software would also have a proper solution? I have deleted unused programs, disabled start-up features, scheduled maintenance, disabled Windows appearance settings, Windows Updates are current, security programs are current and I am cautious of websites and unknown E-mails. Any suggestions? 

Two points:

1. All the programs that purport to fix slow computers are nothing but snake oil. They are more likely to create problems than to solve them, and they should all be avoided.
2. There are several possibilities as to what your problem is, but one of the most likely is malware infection--despite your caution. What anti-virus andanti-spyware programs do you run?

Answer 3

Sorry mistyped security programs only one, and I do use malware bytes occasionally.

Answer 4

Sorry mistyped only one security program.

Answer 5

Hi

 You say security programs, running more than one can cause your computer to run slower.  The general consensus seems to be that running only one security program is the way to go.