Computer is running very slow
A slow computer is one of the most common problems, and a few simple tidy-ups usually make a real difference.
What to do
Pick your kind of computer:
Not sure? How to tell which computer you have
Step 1: Restart the computer: click Start, then the Power button, then Restart. This alone often helps a lot.
Step 2: Close programs and browser tabs you aren't using.
Step 3: Open Settings, choose Windows Update, and install any updates. Restart if asked.
Step 4: Check free space: open Settings, then System, then Storage. If it's nearly full, delete or move files you don't need and empty the Recycle Bin.
Step 5: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, click Startup apps (the Startup tab on Windows 10), and Disable programs you don't need at startup.
Step 6: Run a virus scan: open Windows Security from the Start menu, choose Virus & threat protection, then Quick scan.
Step 7: If it's a laptop, plug it in, as some laptops slow down on battery.
Step 1: Restart the Mac: open the Apple menu and choose Restart.
Step 2: Quit apps you aren't using: right-click the app in the Dock and choose Quit.
Step 3: Close browser tabs you don't need.
Step 4: Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then General, then Software Update, and install any updates.
Step 5: Check free space in General, then Storage. Delete or move files you don't need and empty the Trash.
Step 6: Open Login Items in General (it may be called Login Items & Extensions) and remove apps you don't need at startup.
Step 1: Close tabs and apps you aren't using.
Step 2: Restart the Chromebook.
Step 3: Open Settings, choose About ChromeOS, and click Check for updates.
Step 4: Remove browser extensions you don't use: in Chrome, open the three-dot menu, choose Extensions, then Manage Extensions, and remove ones you don't need.
Step 5: Check free space: open Settings and search for Storage.
Still stuck? If it's still slow, it may be getting old or need more memory or a faster drive, so ask a trusted repair shop for advice before buying anything.