A. Verify that a virus scan sweep is not running:
- During an active scan, system performance will deteriorate. It will return to normal when when the scan is done.
C. Empty the Recycle Bin
- Right-click on the Recycle Bin and select "Empty Recycle Bin", then click "Yes" on next the dialog.
D. Sweep for Adware/Spyware
- Update your definitions file before running.
(You do have a Spyware application, right? See "General Recommendations"
E. Sweep for Viruses
- Update your definitions file before running.
(You do have an anti-virus application, right? See "General Recommendations"
F. Set System Performance option for "Best Performance"
- Right-click on "My Computer" and select "Properties".
- Select the "Advanced" tab and press the "Settings" button in the Performance block.
- Select "Adjust for best performance" in "Performance Options".
G. Check for run-away processes
- Hit CNTRL-ALT-DEL keys simultaneously and go to "Task Manager".
- Select the "Performance" tab.
- Verify in the "PF Usage" display that the pagefile use is not consistently high.
- Verify in the "CPU Usage" display that CPU use is not constantly/mostly at 100%.
- If it is, continue by selecting the "Processes" tab;
- Press the "CPU: label button twice to resort the columns;
- Identify any processes (except "System Idle") that is using lots of CPU time; These processes may be affecting your computer's performance.