If you have a slow running computer there are things you can do to improve its performance. For most systems it is just a matter of general routine maintenance that will help increase its speed.

Spyware and other malicious programs can be the root cause of why your computer is running slowly. Microsoft has an Anti-Spyware program that you can download to find and remove any of these issues. The download is called Spybot Search and Destroy. Adaware is another good utility that is available from Lavasoft. Both programs are free. It is important to install and run these utilities while in safe mode.

The MSCONFIG command launches another Microsoft utility that allow you to easily remove any unnecessary and unwanted programs and files from your computer. Just type in ‘msconfig’ at the command prompt. You can also safely uninstall any programs you want to remove using the Add/Remove Utility in your System Tools in the Control panel.

Another utility found in the Microsoft Download Center is the Anti-Malicious program. It will find and remove any program that is designed for the sole purpose of harming your PC.

Finding and using a Registry editing and cleaning tools is also important. Microsoft does not provide a utility to manage the Registry but there are many good one available for free.

If you perform these utilities you should notice a significant improvement in the speed of your computer. But be sure to keep up with this maintenance routine or you will end up back in the same slow boat.