If you want to improve Windows core system performance, look to those applications, services and processes that naturally tax system memory. Many applications run automatically when your computer starts, and you can use built-in Windows tools to modify these and reduce the drain on system performance. Additionally, you can run a tool that changes the way files are stored. You can also purchase more memory -- a costly but surefire way to improve your core system performance.
Instructions
1. Run the Disk Defragmenter regularly. Windows is somewhat lazy in how it stores files, throwing bits and pieces of files onto different areas of the disk like an errant teenager. When you open a file, Windows has to run off to all these unique locations to display the file for you, which requires significant system memory. The Disk Defragmenter acts like a nanny for your operating system, condensing files into a single location, and making it easier to retrieve the file when it is eventually opened. To run the Disk Defragmenter, select "Start," choose "All Programs," click "Accessories" and select "Disk Defragmenter."
2. Modify the programs that run automatically on startup. Many applications, when installed, will set themselves up to start automatically when you start your computer, even if you haven't configured them as such. Windows makes it easy to modify which programs run at startup. On the Windows desktop, select "Start" and type "msconfig" into the Search bar. Select "MS Config" from the results. Disable the programs you don't want to run automatically at startup, and click "OK." The next time you restart Windows, these programs will not run in the background.
3. Run the Disk Cleanup tool regularly. The Disk Cleanup tool, according to Microsoft, "helps you free up space on your hard drive to improve the performance of your computer. It identifies files you can safely delete, and then allows you to choose to delete them."
The Disk Space tool identifies such unnecessary files as temporary Internet files and program files that you'll likely never need again.
4. Use ReadyBoost. A Microsoft Tool that is installed with Windows 7 and Windows Vista, ReadyBoost enables you to access memory from a flash drive, instead of using virtual memory from the page file, the latter being a heavily resource intensive process.
5. Purchase and install more system memory. The most effective way to quickly upgrade your system performance is installing memory, but it requires that you spend some money. Get at least a 2-gigabyte upgrade for optimum performance.
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