A Windows PC that takes 5 minutes to start isn't necessarily ready for the scrap heap. Often, the slowness is due to an accumulation of useless files or hardware (HDD) that can no longer keep up with the demands of modern software. Here is our optimization blueprint used in the workshop at IRK Informatique Limoges.
1. The big software cleanup
Windows accumulates digital 'trash' over time. Start by uninstalling unused programs and disable applications that launch unnecessarily at startup via the Task Manager.
Pro Tip
'90% of the slow PCs we receive at the workshop find a second youth simply by replacing the old mechanical hard drive with an SSD. It's the most effective mutation you can offer your machine.'
2. Hardware health check
If your processor is running at 100% for no reason, it may be a thermal problem (dust) or a tired fan. A PC that heats up too much reduces its own power to 'survive', which creates huge lags.
3. Steps for a Fast PC
- Update drivers for the graphics card and chipset.
- Clean Windows temporary files (Win + R > %temp%).
- Optimize the system cache.
- Upgrade RAM if you have less than 8 GB.