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Computer basics

My computer is running slow. What should I check first?

A slow computer is not always a dying computer. It may be updating, out of storage, overloaded with tabs, or waiting for a restart.

The short answer

Restart the computer, close extra tabs and apps, check storage, install normal updates, and avoid any pop-up claiming it found hundreds of problems.

Try these first

1Restart before deleting files or installing tools.
2Check free storage if the computer is slow every day.
3If a pop-up says to call support, close the browser instead of calling.

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Now try it on your device

Choose your path

Pick the device or situation that matches the screen in front of you.

2 options

Steps for Windows

  1. 1Restart the PC.
  2. 2Open Settings, Windows Update, and check whether updates are waiting.
  3. 3Open Settings, System, Storage to see whether the drive is almost full.
  4. 4Open Task Manager only if you are comfortable checking which app is using the most resources.

One safety note

Do not install PC cleaner apps from pop-ups.

Before you change settings

1Restart before deleting files or installing tools.
2Check free storage if the computer is slow every day.
3If a pop-up says to call support, close the browser instead of calling.

What to know first

What this usually means

  • The computer has not restarted in a long time.
  • The drive is nearly full.
  • Many browser tabs or startup apps are open.
  • Updates are installing in the background.

Do not do this yet

  • Do not install PC cleaner apps from pop-ups.
  • Do not call a number from a virus warning page.
  • Do not delete system folders to make space.

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You do not need perfect technical words. Send the plain version and a screenshot if you have one.

My [Windows/Mac] computer is slow. It started [today/this week/always], and I see [any message]. What should I check first?