It’s not just hardware that can make a computer slow; software can also bring a computer to its knees. While hardware issues are very straightforward, software issues can be more troublesome to identify and rectify. However, if you want to maximize the speed of your computer system, it’s important to take a hard look at any possible software-related issues.

Is software making your computer slower?

1. Bloatware: Have you ever purchased a new computer or smartphone, only to realize there are a bunch of included programs or apps that you have no use for? Those are perfect examples of bloatware. Often, the manufacturer of those programs or apps pays a fee to the computer or phone manufacturer to have that software included with your device.

• New computers also include additional programs that the manufacturers believe offer important functionality.
• Trialware is another type of bloatware included with many new computers. You know those deals where you get three months free and then the payments start.
• Adware is still another type of bloatware. Everyone has suffered from adware at one type or another. This type of software often results in popup ads or directs you to websites with ads.
• All types of bloatware can slow down your computer, some dramatically so. Unfortunately, bloatware can often be challenging to remove from your computer system.

1. Spyware: Spyware is software that monitors your activity and relays that information to another party. The transmitted information can be personal information, such as bank account information, or web browsing activity. The data is frequently sold to marketing and data firms, advertisers, or to those with more criminal intentions.

• Spyware isn’t just an invasion of your privacy, it can also slow down your computer. Spyware can also be difficult to remove.

1. Software conflicts: Software conflicts occur when two programs can’t run efficiently at the same time. This is commonly the result of both programs competing for the same resources. It could be that both programs require an excessive amount of memory, for example.
2. Antivirus software: Antivirus software can be one of the biggest obstacles to computer speed. It takes a tremendous amount of computer resources to constantly scan for viruses. The updates required to keep virus software up to date can also be a burden to speed.

• There’s a good chance that your operating system includes anti-malware features. A third-party antivirus program is often unnecessary.

1. Garbage software: Most computers have a lot of software that serves little purpose. Not only does this software take up valuable hard drive space, it often runs in the background and requires RAM and and processing power to maintain. All of this results in a slower computer.

• Any unused software should be removed. Any programs that needlessly launch at startup should be disabled.

 

Unless you’re known as the computer guru of your social circle, these can be difficult issues to resolve on your own. This is especially true when managing any bloatware, spyware, or software conflicts. The most important takeaway is that the software on your computer can negatively affect your computer’s speed.

In part 3, we’ll look at how your network can affect your computer’s speed.

If your computer has become slower over time, there are several possible reasons. In this three-part series, you’ll learn the primary reasons a computer isn’t reaching its full speed potential. First, we’ll examine the hardware-related reasons that might be preventing your computer from keeping up with your workload.

There are several hardware upgrades that can positively impact your computer’s speed:

1. Processor: If your computer is older, this is one of the likely reasons your computer isn’t satisfying your need for speed. The speed of the latest CPUs increases by a considerable margin each year. An older computer obviously has an older, and slower, central processing unit.

• Keep in mind, that a motherboard will only accept a particular “family” of central processing units. A processor upgrade might require the installation of a new motherboard in some cases.

1. Random Access Memory (RAM): While RAM does indeed have a speed rating associated with it, it’s the amount of RAM in your computer that is more important. Many computers have open memory slots that can be utilized to add additional memory. There is also the possibility of replacing memory modules with modules of greater capacity.
2. Hard Drive Speed. Not all hard drives are created equal. There are two basic designs utilized for modern hard drives: Hard disk drives (HDD) and solid state drives (SSD).

• Hard disk drives are mechanical and use one or more rotating disks to store information. HDDs operate at either 5,400 or 7,200 RPM, depending on the model. A slower speed drive has the potential to slow down your computer. There are a few models capable of 10,000 RPM, but these are quite rare and expensive.
• Solid state drives don’t have moving parts and are more reliable than hard disk drives. An SSD uses flash technology similar to the common USB stick. Solid state drives are more expensive than hard disk drives, but are considerably faster. The typical SSD is more than 10-times faster than the average 7,200 RPM HDD when it comes to reading and writing data.
• To save on cost, putting the operating system on a smaller SSD drive and storing the other programs and data on a conventional HDD is an great option.
• A hard drive that is near capacity can also hinder a computer’s speed. Your computer needs a fair amount of free hard drive space to operate at peak efficiency.

These are the primary hardware culprits to evaluate if your computer seems to be lagging in performance. Take a look at your processor, the amount of RAM, and the type of hard drive(s) in your computer.

Next, we’ll consider the impact software can have on the speed of a computer system.

The Differences Between Refurbished and Used Computers
 
There are many times when a new computer is either overkill or simply too expensive. Perhaps your needs or your budget are limited. If you’re interested in using a computer to surf the web, use a word processor or spreadsheet, and stay on top of your email and Facebook accounts, a new computer might be more than you need. A used or refurbished computer is a viable option.
 
It can be a little nerve-wracking to purchase a computer from a stranger on Craigslist. That’s what makes refurbished computers so attractive.
 
While there are no official definitions to separate ‘used’ and ‘refurbished’ computers, there are some generally accepted guidelines. A used computer is considered to be a computer sold ‘as-is’ by a private party. There is typically no warranty included. In most cases, no work has been done to the computer to bring it back to factory standards. You have little recourse if the computer develops an issue.
 
A refurbished computer is analogous to purchasing a certified used car from a dealer. The computer should be  put through a rigorous testing process, parts should be replaced as necessary, and a warranty included. A refurbished computer will be approaching the quality of a new computer at a lower price. It can be the best of both worlds.
 
The hard drive should be wiped clean, and the operating system is re-installed so there is ZERO user history. Refurbished desktop computers also often get a new mouse and keyboard (if not they should).  Any problems are  discovered and corrected.
 
This is very different than purchasing directly from the previous owner. A computer purchased on Ebay or Craigslist from an individual looking to sell might contain a history that you don’t want to be associated with.  Sometimes, people will hold onto a computer until a significant problem occurs and computer problems can be quite challenging to rectify. Spending money to purchase someone else’s problem might not be a good strategy. And, getting a refund may be difficult. Used computers can be a gamble.
 

Like anything else, purchasing a used or refurbished computer has both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the pros and cons of purchasing a used desktop or laptop computer can make it much easier to reach the best decision. Good decisions can’t be reached with bad information.
 
Reasons to purchase a used computer:
 
1. Price: This is the most obvious advantage of purchasing a used computer – and the primary motivator for most people. Due to the “slow economy” many people and businesses are looking for used computers as a way to save money. It’s most likely the primary reason you are reading this article and considering a used computer. While older computers typically have lower specifications, they often provide far more capability than the average user requires. Even the most basic computer can be used for word processing, spreadsheets, using the Internet, or viewing photos.
 
• Unless you have a regular need for high-end applications, most desktop and laptop computers are overkill. Further, if you have fast internet speed you can often survive on an older computer with less “spec.”
 
2. Convenience: If you’re purchasing a used computer from a local computer business, it’s much easier to get repairs done. Try taking a new computer back to Wal-Mart for repairs. You’ll likely have to box up your computer and head for the post office. How long can you afford to wait? And yes, new computers sometimes have problems. In buying a used PC from a local shop hopefully you’ll be starting a relationship with a repair person there, also.
 
• A used (or new) computer is much easier to have serviced when purchased from a local provider rather than over the internet.
 
3. You won’t pay for things you don’t need. The primary difference between a current computer model and one that’s 3-years old is a faster processing speed, more ram and better graphics. These improvements aren’t necessary for 75+% of computer users. Why pay for more than you need? Also, many used computers already have expensive office and antivirus software and that is another expense you will not incur.
 
4. Windows 7 unavailable. Many users don’t like Windows 8. If you walk into Best Buy, Office Depot, Staples, etc. the only machines available have Windows 8. If you buy a used computer you can find one with Windows 7.
 
The disadvantages of a used computer:
 
1. Warranty: New computers include a warranty. If you’re purchasing a used computer from an individual or shop, they likely won’t include a warranty; however, purchasing a used computer from a computer business might include a warranty. Remember to ask!
 
2. The latest technology: If you need access to cutting-edge technology a new computer might be a better option. Consider what you truly need before making a decision. If you’re not sure what you need, ask someone with the necessary knowledge.
 
3. Lifespan: A re-furbished computer can potentially last as long as a new computer, but the used computer might naturally be out of date before a new computer. Again, assess your personal requirements and risk tolerance and the cost benefits of both.
 
4. The seller might be selling you a machine that has had a motherboard repair or might have been compromised in some other fashion. Similar to a used car the computer might have a past the seller might not know or be forthcoming about.