1. First, make sure your computer has the latest version of antivirus and antimalware software installed and running.
2. Open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to check which applications and processes are taking up the most resources. Close any programs you no longer need.
3. Run a disk cleanup utility. This will scan your hard drive and free up space by deleting temporary files and other unnecessary items.
4. Delete any large files you no longer need and uninstall any programs you no longer use.
5. Defragment your hard drive. This process reorganizes the data on your hard drive making files and programs run more efficiently.
6. Use a system optimizer program such as CCleaner to further clean up your computer. It can delete more temporary files and remove invalid registry entries.
7. Check for hardware problems that could be causing slow performance. Make sure the fans are working properly and the processor is running at the correct temperature.
8. Finally, look into ways to improve the overall speed of your computer. You might need to upgrade its memory or purchase an SSD.