How to improve business productivity in less than 15 minutes?

Business productivity is increasingly reliant computer productivity, yet most users cannot easily optimize their computers and the IT department often requires to be reminded of the simple tasks, which can make a real difference to the average computer user. This article covers simple steps that any user can follow to rapidly make any computer faster. Implementing either of the first two steps in this article should take less than 15 minutes using a PC or Mac.

Step 1 -  Clean the computer registry

Slow computers often have errors in their registry. The main functions of a registry are about connecting hardware, software and computer files. In practice therefore, the computer registry acts as the computer’s nervous system. Over time the performance of any computer reduces as errors accumulate in the registry, which can also become corrupted. A simple step is to locate then repair the errors in the registry. Despite the fact that it is possible to repair the registry manually in theory, this method is not recommended. The main reason for this, is that it requires strong knowledge of the structure of the registry as well as its functions. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on compare registry fix software for more information.

Step 2 – Delete and block adware and spyware

Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. An easy solution to improve the response time of any computer is to run an anti spyware or adware program which will scan, remove then block adware and spyware. Before buying any anti spyware or adware software it is best to use the trial version which is often free. Among the key features to consider are Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and of course the overall effectiveness of the software. Often the simplest software are also the best, provided that they also rely on a research capability that constantly updates the software for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.

Step 3 – Eliminate viruses

Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. The problem with many viruses is not only the damage they cause to computer files but also the amount of resources which they use and waste, for example RAM and disk space. Running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs will fix many of the problems which are detrimental to computer performance.

Step 4 – Simple housekeeping tasks

There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed.  Another tip is to stop programs launching automatically, as this will also improve the speed of the computer. These simple tasks generally produce marginal improvements.

Step 5 – Optimise the Hard disk

For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. Computer speed also depend on the free space on the hard disk, as temporary files are placed there by computer software. This is also used for swapping files when the operating system needs to use virtual memory as it runs out of RAM. In that event, users can experience a reduction in speed, if too little space is available on the hard disk. To check the hard disk itself it is recommended to use a disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows. For instance whilst some hard disks may be large enough, they may be too fragmented with some sectors being unusable. Running a defragmentation software is another useful step which will improve computer performance.

Step 6 – Optimising the RAM

Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This reduces the amount of memory available for other programs. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. An alternative free option is simply to not run some computer programs at the same time as each other.

Step 7 – Stop the computer from overheating

Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. Installing a new fan is the best solution to overcome this problem, as this increases the air flow through the computer thereby reducing the machine’s temperature and improving its performance.

For more information click on how to make my computer faster.