FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is my computer so slow/why does my computer have errors?
That’s the $50,000 question! The fact of the matter is, without examining your individual computer, it’s not possible to state conclusively why it is slow/showing errors. What we can do is take care of the most common causes of the problems. This does not guarantee that it will solve your computer’s issues, but it gives you a darn good chance.
Think of it like calling a mechanic and asking “why won’t my car start?” He might tell you to check the battery, be sure you have gas in the tank, and check the spark plugs. Fixing these common problems will do the trick most of the time.
That’s why we advocate a wide-range of solutions. Registry cleaners are the first of these, but we also think that users should scan for malware, clean history files, remove file and program clutter, as well as fine-tune Windows settings.
Without bringing your system into the shop, fixing these common problem areas will give you the best chance for success. Our recommended solution to do this is SpeedyPC Pro. It combines multiple scans and fixes into one program, making the process as easy as possible.
What should I do to maintain my computer?
Windows includes a couple of great features which will keep your PC in tip-top shape.
The first of these is the disk defragmenter. When you install a program or save a file, all parts of it might not be contiguous (side-by-side) on your hard drive. Defragmenting your hard drive is the process with which bits and pieces of your saved items/programs are re-arranged to save some space and improve load times.
To access the Windows Defrag tool…
- Click Start/Windows Icon (in the bottom left of your screen).
- Click All Programs
- Click Accessories
- Click System Tools
- Select Disk Defragmenter
- Click Defragment Now
This instructions are for Windows Vista, but should be similar for Windows XP and 7. The disk defragmenter should be scheduled to run automatically also.
Another important tasks is ensuring that you are free of all viruses and malware. Microsoft provides a free virus scanner, which you can download here: Microsoft Security Essentials.
This will take care of most viruses, but you will probably want to get an additional program for malware protection as well.
The most important maintenance step of all is preventative care. Treat your machine kindly! This means:
- always uninstall programs properly
- don’t visit sketchy websites
- don’t download unknown files
- always reboot and close your computer from the start menu (not from the power button)
- try to keep some free space on your hard drive
- don’t put your machine in a dusty, dirty or hot location
- as much as you want to, don’t hit your PC
Why does my computer hang on shutdown?
There’s a couple possible causes for this. First, are you sure it is hanging? Often, Windows can be configured to download and install Windows updates during shutdown. So check that your PC is actually hanging – it might actually be updating!
Second, ensure that there are no viruses or malware getting in the way. Using Microsoft Security Essentials (linked above) along with a malware scan to be sure you are safe.
Third, it’s possible that a program may be corrupted. When you shut down, is a software program open? Are you able to close it manually?
Finally, try a scan of your registry. Errors here have a tendency to slow down the shutdown process, as well as the startup process.
Why do you recommend SpeedyPC Pro?
I don’t have to recommend SpeedyPC Pro. If I wanted to, I could recommend a registry cleaner, a malware scanner, a privacy cleaner, a Windows optimizer, a startup optimizer, and a half dozen other programs.
Together, they would do most of what SpeedyPC Pro does…. Instead, I recommend just one program. This makes it easy for me (just one download!) and makes it easy for the user (just one scan to run).
As you can see, I’m a big fan of the program. I use it on my PC, and I installed it on my family and friends’ computers as well. I’m such a mega-fan that I even signed up as an affiliate!
