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February 12, 2026 Computer Tips 8 min read

Computer Running Slow? 5 Simple Fixes That Actually Help

Is your computer taking forever to start up? Do websites seem to load at a snail's pace? Before you consider buying a new computer or calling for expensive tech support, try these five simple fixes. As someone who helps seniors throughout North York with their technology, I can tell you that most "slow computer" problems have surprisingly simple solutions.

A senior person happily using a fast, well-organized computer

These simple fixes can help your computer run faster without any technical expertise.

Fix #1: Restart Your Computer (Yes, Really)

It sounds too simple to be true, but restarting your computer fixes more problems than anything else I do. Here's why:

  • Clears temporary files: Your computer stores temporary files while you work. Over time, these pile up and slow things down
  • Closes stuck programs: Sometimes programs keep running in the background even after you close them
  • Refreshes memory: Restarting gives your computer a clean slate to work from

How to Restart Properly:

  1. Save any work you have open
  2. Click the Start button (Windows) or Apple menu (Mac)
  3. Select "Restart" — not "Shut Down"
  4. Wait for the computer to fully restart before using it again
Anthony's Pro Tip: Try restarting your computer at least once a week. Think of it like getting a good night's sleep — it keeps everything running smoothly.

Fix #2: Close Programs You're Not Using

Every program running on your computer uses memory and processing power. Many people don't realize they have dozens of programs running at once.

How to See What's Running (Windows):

  1. Look at the bottom of your screen — this is called the taskbar
  2. You'll see icons for open programs
  3. Click the X on any program you're not using
  4. Don't worry — closing a program doesn't delete anything, it just stops it from running

How to See What's Running (Mac):

  1. Look at your Dock (the row of icons at the bottom)
  2. Programs with a dot underneath are running
  3. Right-click on icons you don't need and select "Quit"

Fix #3: Clean Up Your Desktop

A cluttered desktop can actually slow down your computer. Every icon on your desktop uses a small amount of memory. If you have dozens (or hundreds!) of files scattered across your desktop, it can make your computer sluggish.

A clean, organized computer desktop with neatly arranged folders

An organized desktop helps your computer run faster and makes files easier to find.

How to Organize Your Desktop:

  1. Create folders for different types of files (Photos, Documents, Recipes, etc.)
  2. Drag related files into these folders
  3. Delete shortcuts you don't use
  4. Aim to keep only 10-15 items on your desktop at most
Anthony's Pro Tip: Think of your desktop like your kitchen counter. A few items are fine, but too much clutter makes it hard to work efficiently.

Fix #4: Clear Your Browser Cache

If websites are loading slowly or looking strange, clearing your browser cache often helps. The cache is where your browser stores bits of websites to help them load faster — but sometimes these files get corrupted or outdated.

Browser cache cleanup concept showing temporary files being cleared

Clearing your browser cache removes old temporary files that can slow down your internet experience.

How to Clear Cache (Chrome):

  1. Click the three dots in the top right corner
  2. Select "More tools" then "Clear browsing data"
  3. Choose "All time" from the dropdown
  4. Check the box for "Cached images and files"
  5. Click "Clear data"

How to Clear Cache (Safari on Mac):

  1. Click "Safari" in the menu bar
  2. Select "Preferences" then "Privacy"
  3. Click "Manage Website Data"
  4. Click "Remove All" then "Done"
Note: Clearing your cache will log you out of websites, so make sure you remember your passwords before doing this.

Fix #5: Check for Updates

Software updates aren't just about new features — they often include important fixes that make your computer run faster and more securely.

How to Check for Updates (Windows):

  1. Click the Start button
  2. Select "Settings" (the gear icon)
  3. Click "Update & Security"
  4. Click "Check for updates"
  5. If updates are available, let them install

How to Check for Updates (Mac):

  1. Click the Apple menu
  2. Select "System Preferences" or "System Settings"
  3. Click "Software Update"
  4. If updates are available, click "Update Now"

When to Call for Help

These five fixes solve about 80% of the "slow computer" problems I see. However, if you've tried all of these and your computer is still slow, there might be a deeper issue that needs professional attention.

Signs you should call a tech helper:

  • Your computer is more than 7-8 years old
  • You hear strange noises from the computer
  • Programs crash frequently
  • The computer won't start at all
  • You've tried these fixes and nothing helped

Still Having Trouble?

If your computer is still running slow after trying these fixes, I'm here to help. I provide patient, in-home tech support throughout North York and surrounding areas.

$45/hour with satisfaction guaranteed

Call or Text: 289-203-4346

Serving North York, Willowdale, Bayview Village, Don Mills & surrounding areas

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Anthony is a tech support specialist serving seniors in North York and surrounding areas. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from TMU and certifications in AI Engineering from IBM and Google.