Pros of Windows 10

It's free (for now) – Unlike previous versions of Windows, for which you had to pay to upgrade, Windows 10 is being offered for free, with a catch. Users qualify for the free upgrade if they have a valid Windows 7 or Windows 8 licence. The new Windows 10 licence is tied to the machine on which the upgrade is performed. The opportunity to secure the free upgrade is open for 12 months, after which Windows 10 will cost between £80 to £120, depending on which version you are interested in.
For more information on the Free Windows 10 upgrade, see this article: Windows 10 free upgrade: When can I update on desktop and mobile?
Continuous updates – Microsoft intends for Windows 10 to be the last numbered base version of Windows, meaning that from now on updates will roll-out continually over time, much like the system implemented by rival Apple and its OS X. This positions Windows as a service platform, rather than a stand-alone piece of software, through which it can push its other products and services.
Unified across devices – If you already own an Xbox One, have a PC, use Windows Phone and have a Windows 8.1 laptop/tablet, Microsoft says you will be able to work seamlessly across your devices with Windows 10. This means accessing your work and personal files from any Windows device, whether its a tablet of phone while out and about, or your home PC when away from the office.
Xbox One is also getting an update so it can play nicely with Windows desktop PCs. Users will be able to stream Xbox One games to their Windows PC, and cross-platform multiplayer is being introduced (although titles are limited at this time). Finally, streaming content media to and from the Xbox One should be a lot easier once the update dust has settled.
To learn more about how the Xbox One fits into the grand Windows 10 vision, read this article: Windows 10 and Xbox One: All you need to know about Microsoft console's new dashboard
Less Storage Used and Better System Restore –Microsoft has revealed that they will be compressing the Windows 10 system files in a variety of clever ways to ensure performance is maintained, but storage space is not wasted. Microsoft claims to have saved 1.5GB of for Windows 10 32-bit, and 2.6GB for Windows 10 64-bit.
This couples with a better system restore function. Forget about having to create recovery images that take up space on your hard drive, have to be painstakingly copied to external storage media, and take ages to restore. Microsoft says it will be much easier to perform a clean install of Windows 10 while keeping already downloaded updates in place and your files intact using the Refresh and Reset functions.
Cortana voice assistant – Windows 10 will be getting the beta preview of Microsoft's voice-activated assistant, Cortana. Already being trialled on Windows Phone, the personal digital assistant allows you to voice command your PC or device to perform various tasks, such as visiting websites, opening apps, taking notes, setting reminders, and a variety of others. The Xbox One already has such features, which will also be overhauled to match the Cortana branding.

Windows 10 Offer Details

Yes, free! This upgrade offer is for a full version of Windows 10, not a trial. 3GB download required; standard data rates apply. To take advantage of this free offer, you must upgrade to Windows 10 within one year of availability. Once you upgrade, you have Windows 10 for free on that device.

Windows 10 Upgrade Offer is valid for qualified Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 devices, including devices you already own. Some hardware/software requirements apply and feature availability may vary by device and market. The availability of Windows 10 upgrade for Windows Phone 8.1 devices may vary by OEM, mobile operator or carrier. Devices must be connected to the internet and have Windows Update enabled. Windows 7 SP1 and Windows 8.1 Update required. Some editions are excluded: Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise, and Windows RT/RT 8.1. Active Software Assurance customers in volume licensing have the benefit to upgrade to Windows 10 enterprise offerings outside of this offer. To check for compatibility and other important installation information, visit your device manufacturer’s website and the Windows 10 Specifications page. Additional requirements may apply over time for updates. Security and features are kept automatically up-to-date which is always enabled. See the Windows 10 How to Upgrade page for details. 

Windows 10 Offer Details

Yes, free!
This upgrade offer is for a full version of Windows 10, not a trial. 3GB download required; standard data rates apply. To take advantage of this free offer, you must upgrade to Windows 10 within one year of availability. Once you upgrade, you have Windows 10 for free on that device.

Windows 10 Upgrade Offer is valid for qualified Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 devices, including devices you already own. Some hardware/software requirements apply and feature availability may vary by device and market. The availability of Windows 10 upgrade for Windows Phone 8.1 devices may vary by OEM, mobile operator or carrier. Devices must be connected to the internet and have Windows Update enabled. Windows 7 SP1 and Windows 8.1 Update required. Some editions are excluded: Windows 7 Enterprise, Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise, and Windows RT/RT 8.1. Active Software Assurance customers in volume licensing have the benefit to upgrade to Windows 10 enterprise offerings outside of this offer. To check for compatibility and other important installation information, visit your device manufacturer’s website and the Windows 10 Specifications page. Additional requirements may apply over time for updates. Security and features are kept automatically up-to-date which is always enabled. See the Windows 10 How to Upgrade page for details. 

HP PCs - Resolving Slow System Performance (Windows 7)

From HP

Turning off nonessential graphical features to improve system performance

Graphical features and programs can use a lot of system resources. Turning off these features can improve system performance. This section explains how to adjust visual effects for best performance and how to disable Windows Aero.

Adjusting visual effects for best performance in Windows 7

Windows 7 has various visual effects designed to improve the appearance of Windows during use. However, these effects use system resources, and turning them off can improve system performance.

View a video on adjusting visual effects

Follow these steps to adjust visual effects, such as menu and window graphics, to optimize performance:

1. Click Start , right-click Computer, and then click Properties.
   The System window opens.
2. Click Advanced System Settings.
   If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
   The System Properties window opens with the Advanced tab selected.
3. Under Performance, click Settings.
   Figure : System Properties

   
4. Select Adjust for best performance, and then click OK.
   Figure : Performance Options

   

Disabling Windows Aero in Windows 7

Windows 7 provides a visual experience known as Aero. Windows Aero can be used to change window colors, provide alternate tasking views, and make window borders transparent.

 caution:

Disabling Aero can greatly improve system performance, but might prevent certain software programs from opening. For example, if you have an HP Touch computer, disabling Aero might prevent the HP TouchSmart software from opening.

While Windows Aero does offer benefits to your computing experience, it comes at a cost in system performance.

View a video on disabling Windows Aero

If you do not want to use the Windows Aero features and want to increase the performance of your system, follow these steps to disable Windows Aero and apply a different theme:

1. Right-click an open area of the desktop and select Personalize.
   The Personalization window opens.
   Figure : Personalization window

   
2. Select a theme that is not an Aero theme.

Using HP Support Assistant to keep your computer running smoothly

HP recommends using HP Support Assistant on a regularly scheduled basis. Use this tool to keep your computer tuned up.

 note:

If you are not sure that you are using the latest version, or if the operating system was upgraded to Windows 7, download the current version of HP Support Assistant from the HP web site.

 note:

If your computer does not have HP support assistant or does not support HP Support Assistant, skip to the next section for steps that do not involve HP Support Assistant.

Run HP Support Assistant to scan your computer and get the status of any available maintenance tasks. After the scan is complete, a list of maintenance tasks displays. Review and perform all the recommended actions.

View a video on using HP Support Assistant

Use the following steps to scan your computer with HP Support Assistant:

1. Click Start, click All Programs, click HP, and then click HP Support Assistant. Or click the HP Support Assistant icon on the desktop.
2. Click Updates and tune-ups on the main menu.
   Figure : Updates and tune-ups

   
3. Select HP Updates, then click Check for HP updates now.
   Figure : Check for HP updates now

   
   The HP Support Assistant performs a series of tasks to analyze your computer.
   Figure : Checking the computer

   
4. When the update and tune-up is complete, perform any recommended actions and install updates.

Performing system cleanup without using HP Support Assistant

A computer's hard disk drive can have a major effect on system performance. Over time the hard drive can become cluttered with unwanted or temporary files, the data can become fragmented and stored in an inefficient manner, or there may be disk errors on the drive itself. All of these issues can impact system performance, and all are easy to maintain. This section describes methods to maintain hard drive performance through removing unwanted and temporary files, checking the hard drive for errors, and defragmenting the drive.

Emptying the Recycle Bin

Regularly emptying the Recycle Bin will increase free hard drive space and reduce the time it takes Windows to access the hard drive.

View a video on emptying the Recycle Bin

To empty the Recycle Bin, use the following steps:

1. From the Windows desktop, double-click Recycle Bin .
2. Restore any mistakenly deleted items by right-clicking each file, and then selecting Restore.
3. Click Empty the Recycle Bin. Windows removes the contents of the Recycle Bin from the hard disk.
4. Select Yes to confirm.
5. Close the Recycle Bin.

Deleting temporary files and directories in Windows 7

Deleting temporary files and folders increases hard disk space and reduces the time Windows takes to access the hard drive. It also resolves problems with spooling print jobs. Windows uses a Temp folder to temporarily store files intended only for temporary use. Over time, these files can build up and cause problems.

View a video on deleting temporary files and directories

To delete temporary files, use the following steps:

1. Close all open software programs.
2. Click Start , click All Programs, click Accessories, click System Tools, and then click Disk Cleanup.
   Figure : Select drive

   
3. Select the drive you want to clean up, and then click OK.
   A message opens telling you that Disk Cleanup is calculating how much space you can free on the drive you chose.
   Figure : Disk Cleanup progress indication window

   
4. Place a check next to the types of files you want the Disk Cleanup tool to delete. Temporary files are safe to delete.

    caution:

   Selecting some options can have a negative effect. Examples: Selecting Hibernation File Cleaner can prevent the computer from entering hibernation. Selecting Setup Log Files deletes the files that online phone support agents use to help troubleshoot setup problems. If you are unsure about what to delete, do not delete the files until you know if the files are not important for your use of the computer.

   Figure : Disk Cleanup

   
5. Click OK.
6. Click Delete Files.

Checking for hard drive errors in Windows 7

Perform the following procedure to check the integrity of the hard disk drive in Windows 7. Close all open programs before beginning the disk check.

View a video on checking for hard drive errors

To check the hard drive for errors, use the following steps:

1. Close all open software programs.
2. Click Start , and then click Computer.
3. Right-click the hard disk drive that you want to check, and then click Properties.
   Figure : Selecting Hard Disk Drive Properties

   
4. In the Properties window, click the Tools tab.
   Figure : Tools tab

   
5. Under Error-checking, click Check Now.
   If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
6. If desired, click the check box next to Automatically fix file system errors and Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.

    caution:

   Checking and fixing disk errors can take an hour or more to complete, depending on the size of your hard drives, and you CANNOT use your computer during this process.

   Figure : Check Disk options

   
7. Click Start.
   If a window opens stating that Windows can't check the disk while it's in use, click Schedule disk check and follow the on-screen instructions to restart the computer and scan the disk for errors.
   Figure : Windows can't check the disk while it's in use

   

Defragmenting the hard drive in Windows 7

The Disk Defragmenter tool takes all the scattered bits of program data and groups them together in more efficient areas of the drive.

View a video on defragmenting the hard drive

Use the following steps to defragment the hard drive:

1. Close all open software programs. This includes background programs such as virus scanners.
2. Click Start , click All Programs, click Accessories, click System Tools, and then click Disk Defragmenter.

    note:

   If Disk Defragmenter repeatedly starts, a hidden background program is still accessing the hard drive. Restart the computer in Safe mode and try again. For more information, see Windows 7 Safe Mode.

3. Click Defragment disk. This could take a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the amount of data on your hard disk drive. You have the option to click Stop operation to stop the tool.
   Figure : Disk Defragmenter

   

Install critical Windows updates

If your computer's software and drivers are not up to date, system performance can decrease. Follow the steps in Updating Drivers and Software with Windows Update (Windows 7, Vista, XP) to install critical Windows updates and improve your system's performance.

Removing viruses and spyware with Microsoft Security Essentials

If the computer is performing slowly after connecting to the Internet, adware or spyware programs might be installed. Spyware and adware software programs use the Internet to download and upload data in the background. Some of this data might be sensitive information or unwanted advertising. Removing these malicious programs will improve the performance of your system. For more information, see About Spyware, Adware, and Browser Hijacking Software.

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free download for all computers running a genuine version of Windows. It provides protection against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Information on downloading and using Microsoft Security Essentials can be found in the document Using Microsoft Security Essentials to Protect Against Viruses and Spyware.

Managing applications in Windows 7 to improve system performance

Having unused applications installed to the hard drive, or leaving applications running when not being used, can both have a negative impact on system performance. This section describes how to remove unwanted applications and close applications that are not in use.

Freeing up space on the hard drive in Windows 7

Windows uses free space on the hard drive for different types of operations such as caching and virtual memory. The computer might not run reliably if the free disk space drops below five percent of the total disk space.

 caution:

You might see a RECOVERY (D:) or FACTORY_IMAGE (D:) hard drive. This hard drive is reserved for system recovery and should not be used for anything else.

To view the amount of free space on the hard drive:

1. Click Start
   

   

   , and then click Computer.
2. Right-click the hard drive, and then click Properties.
3. View the amount of space available next to Free space.
   Figure : Hard drive properties

   

View a video on removing unwanted programs

Use the following steps to remove unwanted programs and increase hard drive space:

1. Click Start , and then click Control Panel.
2. Under Programs, click Uninstall a program.
   The Uninstall or change a program window opens.
   Figure : Uninstall or change a program

   
3. Select the program you want to remove.
4. Click Uninstall or Uninstall/Change at the top of the program list.
5. Read and respond to any messages that might open while the software is being removed from your computer.

Closing unused software to improve performance

Close software programs that you are not using. Minimizing a software program window does not stop that software program from continuing to use the processor and memory. Being connected to the Internet, watching TV or video, playing games, listening to music, and running virus scans are all software tasks that can use a lot of system resources. Running more than one can add up and cause the system to slow down. Run virus scans and other system tools when no one uses the computer or when you are away from the desk.

Managing startup programs by preventing background programs from loading

A startup program is software that opens when Windows opens. Over time, as you install more and more software programs, the number of small icons on the notification area increases (usually these icons are in the lower-right corner, next to the time). Each of these small pictures represents a program running in the background, and each one uses valuable system resources. Move the mouse pointer over each icon to identify what software it is. Common programs that load and run in the background are security software, Windows Update, instant messaging software, and multimedia programs. You can increase system resources by stopping some of these tasks from loading, or by changing their settings. This can be achieved in a variety of ways because these programs open from various different places.

This section describes how to remove unwanted startup programs using System Configuration and the Startup folder.

Using System Configuration to prevent programs from launching in Windows 7

The System Configuration tool can be used to make Windows use Selective Startup. This means that Windows prevents selected programs from loading when the system starts, thus freeing resources that can improve system performance.

View a video on using System Configuration

Perform the following steps to selectively prevent items from starting when Windows launches.

 caution:

Disable only those items that are known and unwanted. Disabling system-critical items might cause problems.

1. Click Start , and type msconfig into the Search box. Click msconfig.
   If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
   Figure : Opening the System Configuration tool

   
   The System Configuration tool displays.
2. Click the General tab, and then click Selective startup.
   Figure : General tab

   
3. Select the Startup tab, and uncheck any tasks that do not contribute to the system and are unwanted.
   If you are unsure about a task, write the name down and research it on the Internet. Do not remove a checkmark if you do not know what the task is. For a list of files that are recommended not to remove, review the HP support document: Using Microsoft System Configuration in Windows 7.
   Figure : Startup tab

   
4. Click Apply, and then click OK to accept the changes.
5. When prompted, click Restart.
   Figure : Restart the computer

   
6. If Windows or other software stops working after a checkmark is removed from a task, restart the computer and reverse these procedures to replace the checkmark. If needed, you can press F8 after the first blue HP startup screen (after the computer has been turned on) to open safe mode. For more information, see Windows 7 Safe Mode.

By completing these steps, Windows runs using Selective Startup. If Selective Startup is disabled in the future, all the selected software programs will start again.

Removing icons from the Startup folder in Windows 7

The Startup folder contains icons for programs that will automatically run when the system is started. Each of these programs slows down the startup process and uses system resources. Removing unwanted icons from this folder will prevent these programs from loading when the system starts, and will improve system performance.

View a video on removing startup icons

Use the following steps to prevent unwanted items from loading when starting up your computer:

1. Right-click anywhere in an open area on the Windows desktop, and select New and Folder. Name the folder Notstartup. This folder will be used later.
2. Click Start , click All Programs, right-click Startup, and then click Open.
   The Startup folder opens.
   Figure : Startup folder

   
3. Any icons in the list indicate programs that load when Windows opens. Right-click any of these icons and select Properties to reveal more information about the icon.
4. Right-click any one icon you do not want, and then select Cut.
5. Double-click the Notstartup folder on the desktop that was created earlier.
6. Right-click inside the Notstartup folder, and then click Paste. The icon that was cut from the Startup folder is now placed in the Notstartup folder.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 for other programs that you do not want to run at startup.
8. Restart the computer.
   Any items removed from Startup no longer open when Windows opens. You can open the programs by double-clicking the desired item in the Notstartup folder.

Upgrading memory

Upgrading memory can improve system performance. You can upgrade random-access memory (RAM) on most HP and Compaq notebook computers. For step-by-step instructions please see the help document HP Notebook PCs - Upgrading Memory (RAM).

Adjusting System Restore settings in Windows 7

System Restore is a feature of Windows that can revert system software and settings back to a particular date. System Restore does this by saving the changes made to system files in a restore point. These restore points use a lot of hard drive space. System Restore uses up to four percent of the hard drive with restore points if left unadjusted, regardless of the size of the hard drive.

 caution:

If you are experiencing system problems and may need to restore your computer to an earlier time, DO NOT remove the restore points.

 caution:

Selecting Turn off system protection will prevent the system from creating future restore points. You cannot restore the hard drive without restore points.

The following sections describe how to reduce the hard drive space system restore uses and how to manually create a restore point.

Reducing the space System Restore uses for restore points

System Restore points can use a large amount of hard drive space. Reducing the space used for restore points will free up hard drive space that the system may be able to use to improve system performance.

View a video on adjusting System Restore settings

Use the following steps to reduce the space System Restore uses for restore points.

1. Click Start , right-click Computer, and then select Properties.
2. From the tasks pane on the left, click System protection.
   Figure : Computer Properties

   
   If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
   The System Properties window opens with the System Protection tab selected.
   Figure : System Protection

   
3. Click Configure.
4. To reduce the amount of hard drive space the system reserves for system restores, slide the Max Usage: slider bar to 2%. You can choose a higher or lower percentage depending on how many restore points you want and the capacity of your hard drive.
   Figure : Max Usage slider

   
5. Click OK.

Creating a restore point in Windows 7

System Restore automatically creates restore points each week or when system changes are made. You can manually create a restore point to save your current system files.

To create a restore point:

1. Click Start , right-click Computer, and then select Properties.
2. From the tasks pane on the left, click System Protection.
   Figure : Computer Properties

   
   The System Protection tab opens.
   If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
   Figure : System Protection

   
3. Click Create.
4. Type a description for the restore point and click Create.
5. To view your restore points, click System Restore.

Reducing heat inside the PC to improve performance

Heat buildup can cause problems for any computer. Generally, when temperatures inside the case rise above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius), the risk of damaging important internal components increases greatly. The most common cause of overheating is the accumulation of dust inside the computer. The electrical components in a computer generate heat and fans inside the computer help move the air to keep the components cooled to normal operating temperatures. Inadequate cooling can cause excess heat to build up inside the case which can damage components and decrease system performance. The sound of the fan running constantly may indicate that the computer is not running as efficiently as possible and that there is a problem with accumulated dust clogging the air vents.

View a video on reducing heat inside the PC

Symptoms of Overheating

• Windows, games, or other applications have poor performance or stop responding during use.
• Cooling fans inside the computer become louder since they are spinning faster to remove the heat.
• When starting the computer, it sometimes freezes at a black screen and does not open into Windows. If Windows does open, it usually stops responding.
• The mouse and keyboard stop responding.

Follow these steps to reduce the risk of your computer overheating.

1. Computers have vents located around the case to allow air to flow through the case. If these vents become clogged or heat generating parts become covered with dust, the fan cannot cool the components properly and overheating can become a problem. Lint and dust accumulation prevents air from flowing around the cooling fins and causes the fan to work harder. If there is dust in the vents, you should clean the computer by blowing out the dust from around the fan and heat shield. This prevents dust from accumulating.

    caution:

   Ensure that the computer is turned off and the AC adapter is disconnected before spraying with compressed air to prevent damage to the PC.

   Use a can of compressed air (a vacuum cleaner on blow function or a hair dryer in cool air mode can also be used, though the can of compressed air is better suited for this task) to remove dust from the computer's vents and prevent overheating. Removing the dust increases the air flow to improve cooling and allows the fan to run quieter.
   The cooling vents are located in various places depending on the PC model. You can identify the vents by looking for the copper or black fins inside the vents. You should also blow the compressed air into other openings such as the fan intake vent to help keep the air circulating and prevent dust from accumulating on components. By taking this action periodically as a preventive measure, you can greatly reduce the possibility of component damage and prevent the slowdown of the computer's performance.
   Figure : Notebook PC side vent
   
   For more information on cleaning your desktop PC, refer to the HP Desktop PCs - Cleaning Your Desktop PC support document.
   For more information on cleaning your notebook PC, refer to the HP Notebook PCs - Cleaning Your Notebook PC support document.
2. To decrease the likelihood of overheating problems, ensure the fans on your computer are able to ventilate properly. Proper ventilation for the system is important for system operation. Follow these guidelines to ensure adequate ventilation:
   • Keep the computer upright and on a sturdy, level surface.
   • Provide at least 6 inches (15.25 centimeters) of clearance around each vent.
   • If the computer is being used at high altitudes, above 5000 feet (1500 meters), take extra care to keep the computer cool. The maximum limit of 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) drops about 2 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) every 1000 feet (300 meters) of altitude.
3. If using an HP Notebook PC, HP CoolSense technology can modify your notebook computer's temperature by using its motion sensor to determine whether the computer is being used in a stationary environment or a mobile one. By using this information it automatically adjusts both computer performance and fan speed to keep the computer cool. You can set HP CoolSense software to your specifications. For more information on this see HP Notebook PCs - HP CoolSense Technology.
4. If your computer is overheating, place it in a cooler room. A small difference in temperature might be all that is needed to prevent a component from failing. Move the computer to a cooler room in the house or office. If this is not an option, continue with the next step.
5. If overheating issues persist after cleaning the vents and moving the computer to a cooler room, a hardware component might be damaged. Test the computer to see if any hardware, such as memory, the processor, or the graphics hardware, have failed. Most HP and Compaq notebook computers have diagnostic software to verify hardware failures. For more information, see HP Desktop PCs - Testing for Hardware Failures (Windows 7) or HP Notebook PCs - Testing for Hardware Failures (Windows 7, Vista).
   If hardware has failed, either replace the bad component or contact HP for further assistance.

Recommended maintenance schedule

To free resources and keep the computer running correctly, follow a maintenance schedule as listed below.

Recommended maintenance schedule

Daily tasks	Weekly tasks	Monthly tasks	Quarterly tasks
Manage e-mail Delete e-mail from unknown sources. Do not open attachments that you do not trust. Organize e-mail.	Protect against viruses, adware, and spyware Update definition files or schedule a weekly automatic update. Run a full virus, adware, and spyware scan or schedule a weekly automatic scan.	Use Windows Update Check for updates or schedule a monthly automatic update.	Set new passwords
	Optimize system performance Using HP Support Assistant to keep your computer running smoothly Performing system cleanup without using HP Support Assistant	Review the Start menu Managing startup programs by preventing background programs from loading	Clean the computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse Use a portable vacuum to remove dust and debris from ventilation areas.
	Clean up Web browser files Delete cookies. Delete cache. Delete history files.	Clean up the desktop Delete or remove unneeded icons and software programs.

Resolving Slow System Performance (Windows 7)

PCs - Resolving Slow System Performance (Windows 7)

Use this document to help make Windows and other software perform better. The information below provides ways to improve system performance by making more resources available.

Common causes of slow system performance:

• Temporary files, cookies, or a full recycle bin will cause less disk space.
• No free disk space or disk errors.
• Applications that require a lot of system resources.
• Running multiple applications.
• Nonessential graphic features.
• Not enough memory.
• Overheating due to intensive graphic applications or dust in vents.
• Running multiple instances of anti-virus software.

Microsoft Fix it Solution to automatically improve system performance

To automatically improve system performance, click the Microsoft Fix it Solution:

MS Fixit 974820

Increasing your virtual memory to improve system performance

Virtual memory allows your computer to compensate for a lack of random access memory (RAM), by temporarily moving data to disk storage. To allocate more disk space to this function, complete the following steps:

1. In Windows 7 type advanced system settings into Search, and select View advanced system settings from the search results.
2. In the Performance section, click Settings.
3. Select the Advanced tab, and then click Change in the Virtual memory section.
4. Uncheck the box next to Automatically manage paging file size for all drives and select Custom size.
5. See the recommended values for your system at the bottom of the window and enter them as the new values for Initial size (MB) and in the Maximum size (MB) as shown below.
   Figure : Increase your virtual memory

   
6. Click Ok.