There are many things you can do that may help your computer run faster. But when it comes down to it if you have outdated components you may have to bite the bullet and pay to upgrade some of your components. This may be especially true if you play a lot of games on your computer. Many times the stock video card is just not up to the speed necessary for game play, especially with many of the newer, graphic intensive games.

But the motherboard and CPU speed is what really determines the ultimate speed of your PC. You can add RAM and that can help a lot but if you really have an older PC you might have to resign yourself to buy a new one. But if you want to try to salvage an older PC you can upgrade the video card and RAM to see it that will help.

If you are considering upgrading your RAM there are utilities that can determine the best configuration for your system. RAM is also pretty cheap so you won’t be out a lot of money even if it does not improve your systems speed that much. You must be sure that the memory you purchase is compatible with your system. You can check your computers manual for specifications.

Before you upgrade your video card you also need to find out what is compatible with your computers motherboard. You also have to be sure that the power supply is capable of handling the added power that it will consume.