Computer very slow
Slow computers usually need a restart, have too much open, or are in the middle of updates. If it stays slow, it may need more memory or an SSD, which we can check.
Guided fix
All the steps on one page
- 1
Restart the computer
Save your work, then choose Start, Power, Restart. Computers that haven’t been restarted for days often slow down.
- 2
Close what you aren’t using
Close programs and browser tabs you don’t need right now. Dozens of open tabs in Chrome or Edge can use most of a computer’s memory.
- 3
Let Windows finish updating
Open Settings, then Windows Update (on Windows 10, Update & Security, then Windows Update). If updates are waiting, install them and restart. Computers are often slow while updates run in the background.
When to contact us
- When only one program is slow, it may need an update, a settings fix or more memory. Raise a ticket and tell us which program.
- If it is still slow, the computer may need more memory, an SSD or a clean-up that we should do for you. Raise a ticket and we’ll take a look.
Other problems
All guides