There are many factors that could be causing Windows applications to run slowly. Some of the most common causes include a lack of hardware resources, outdated hardware or software, malware infections, conflicting programs, corrupt files and incorrect settings.
Lack of Hardware Resources
One of the most common reasons for applications running slowly is when the computer does not have enough hardware resources available. This could mean that the computer’s processor (CPU), memory (RAM), hard drive space, or graphics card are insufficient to run the application in question. For example, if a game requires a certain amount of memory, but the computer only has 4GB of RAM, it will likely run very slowly.
To check if the computer has sufficient hardware resources for the applications being used, open the Task Manager (Ctrl + Alt + Delete). Under the Performance tab, make sure that the CPU, Memory, Disk, and Network usage levels remain below 100%. If any of these values exceed 100%, it is likely that the computer does not have enough hardware to run the application.
Outdated Hardware or Software
Another common cause of slow application performance is outdated hardware or software. It is essential to keep the operating system up to date, as well as any applications that are frequently used. Microsoft regularly updates Windows with security and performance improvements, so updating the system is recommended.
For applications specifically, it is important to make sure that they are using the latest version. Many applications provide automatic updates, which will download and install the latest version without any user interaction. If an application does not provide automatic updates, it may be worth checking the manufacturer website to determine if a newer version is available.
Malware Infections
Malware infections can cause all kinds of problems with computer performance, including slow application speeds. Malware is a type of malicious software that can directly harm the computer, or use up system resources without the user’s knowledge. To protect against malware, it is recommended to use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program. Such programs will scan the computer for potential threats and remove them before they can do any damage.
Conflicting Programs
Sometimes, two or more programs can conflict with each other when trying to access the same hardware resources. This can cause both applications to run slowly, or for one of the applications to crash unexpectedly. When attempting to install a new program, make sure to check if there are any known conflicts with existing applications.
Corrupt Files
Corrupt files can also cause Windows applications to run slowly, as they can take up system resources. Corrupt files can be caused by a power surge, improper shutdown, or other factors. To locate and repair corrupted files, right-click on the Start menu and select ‘Command Prompt’. Enter ‘sfc /scannow’ to start the System File Checker tool, which will scan the computer for any corrupt system files and replace them with the correct versions.
Incorrect Settings
Finally, incorrect settings can also affect application performance. Many applications have built-in settings that can be changed to improve performance. For example, some games have options to lower the resolution or disable certain graphical effects in order to boost performance. Other applications may have similar settings that can be adjusted to increase performance.