If your Microsoft operating system is running sluggishly, you can easily clean it up to make it run faster. After constant use, it is normal for computer performance to become slower. Windows systems contain pre-installed tools that you can use to enhance the overall performance of your system.

Run Disk Defragmenter1

Press the "Windows" logo key. Click "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and open "Disk Defragmenter." Click "Continue" if the User Account Control prompt appears.

2

Click "Defragment now." The length of the defragmentation process depends on the size of your hard drive.

3

Reboot your system once the process completes. Navigate your system and make sure it is running faster.

Disable Programs1

Press the "Windows" key plus "R." Type "msconfig" into the dialog box and press "Enter." Click "Continue" if the User Account Control prompt appears.

2

Open the "Startup" tab and uncheck the programs that are not necessary to run your computer, such as the music, photo and gaming software.

3

Click "Apply" and click "OK." Reboot your system. Navigate your system and make sure it is running faster.

Run Windows Defender1

Press the "Windows" key. Type "Windows Defender" in the "Search" field and press "Enter."

2

Click the down arrow by "Scan." Select the "Full Scan" option and allow the tool to detect and repair spyware.

3

Reboot your system once the scan is complete. Navigate your system and make sure it is running faster.

References Microsoft at Home: Optimize Your Computer for Peak Performance University of Wisconsin KnowledgeBase: Windows -- Disabling Startup Programs Microsoft Windows: Windows Defender

• How to Clean Up a Microsoft Computer System for Faster Performance [10/29/2010 03:48:01]