Is it a virus? Do you need a computer cleaning? Is it time for an upgrade? These questions and more may pass through the mind of a computer owner dealing with slow performance on the Internet, in a program or with the computer in general. Although some troubleshooting techniques may be quick or may not require constant attention, you may want to look deeper at your problem before buying new parts or an entirely new system. Before doing anything drastic or expensive, consider a few computer performance problems that require specific troubleshooting.
What Is A Virus, And What Does It Do?
Viruses, malicious software (malware) and bad files of all kinds are used to steal information, destroy information or to create havoc on the systems they infiltrate.
When it comes to computer performance, you need to realize that viruses are programs, too. Any program consumes resources when it's running, and if the virus consumes most of your computer's resources (or more than your computer can afford because of other programs running at the same time), the system will slow down.
Some viruses are designed to specifically cause problems, while others may be as lightweight (use as little resources) as possible to avoid detection. Viruses designed specifically to slow down your computer may constantly launch new instances of itself, open your own programs or fill your computer with files to create the slow performance.
Viruses are designed to evade removal attempts, although the Information Security industry is constantly combating new technology threats. This can be even more difficult when your anti-virus (another program) can't access the resources it needs to remove a virus.
In these cases, things become more tricky. You'll need to change your computer to a mode where only the most essential services are available--such as safe mode--and hope that the virus isn't sophisticated enough to affect that mode as well. If you've got a particularly difficult virus to remove or if the virus keeps coming back, contact a computer services professional for assistance.
The Need For Upgrades
Depending on the age of your computer, your parts may not be able to keep up with the latest programs or Internet experiences. As time goes on, websites on the Internet employ greater quality tools and graphics, and programs demand resources for parts that the current retail computers have as a standard option.
Your existing programs could increase in demand due to updates. Although you could revert to an old version of the software that works with your system, you may be missing out on features that are only available in new versions.
A computer services professional can assist you with selecting the right parts for your upgrade. If necessary, a new computer can be selected that best matches your needs without going vastly beyond your budget.
