How to Speed Up Your Windows & Mac

Is your computer or tablet running slower than usual? Whether you’re using a Windows PC, a Mac, a Windows tablet, or an iPad, sluggish performance can be frustrating – especially when you’re trying to get things done. Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to boost your device’s speed without needing to be a tech expert.

In this guide from Google Keith, we’ll walk you through proven tech tips and how-to guides to help you speed up your slow computer or tablet. Let’s get started.

Quick Fixes Anyone Can Try

Before diving into advanced solutions, try these quick fixes. They often resolve performance issues in just a few minutes.

Restart Your Device

It sounds simple, but restarting your device can clear temporary files, stop background processes, and refresh system memory.

Close Unused Apps and Browser Tabs

Too many open apps or tabs can drain memory and slow down your system. Close anything you’re not actively using.

Check for System Updates

Outdated software can cause performance issues. Make sure your operating system is up to date:

Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update.
Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Software Update.
iPad: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Free Up RAM

On Windows and Mac, you can use built-in tools like Task Manager or Activity Monitor to identify and close memory-hogging apps.

Free Up Storage Space

Low disk space can significantly slow down your device. Here’s how to clean things up:

Delete Temporary Files and Downloads

Windows: Use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense.
Mac: Use Finder > Go > Go to Folder, then type ~/Library/Caches to manually delete cache files.
iPad: Delete unused files and clear Safari cache in Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.

Uninstall Unused Apps

Remove apps you no longer use:

Windows: Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
Mac: Drag apps to the Trash or use Launchpad.
iPad: Tap and hold the app icon, then tap Remove App.

Use Built-In Storage Tools

Windows: Enable Storage Sense to automatically manage space.
Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Storage and use Recommendations.
iPad: Use Offload Unused Apps in Settings > General > iPad Storage.

Manage Startup Programs

Too many apps launching at startup can slow down boot time.

Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps

Windows: Open Task Manager > Startup tab and disable non-essential apps.
Mac: Go to System Settings > General > Login Items and remove unnecessary items.

Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malware can significantly degrade performance. Regular scans are essential.

Recommended Tools

Windows: Use Microsoft Defender or third-party tools like Malwarebytes.
Mac: Use Malwarebytes for Mac or similar trusted software.

How to Run a Scan

Open your antivirus software.
Select Full Scan or Threat Scan.
Follow the prompts to remove any threats.

Update or Reinstall Software

Outdated or corrupted software can cause slowdowns.

Keep Apps and Drivers Updated

Windows: Use Device Manager to update drivers.
Mac: Use the App Store to update apps.
iPad: Update apps via the App Store.

Reinstall Problematic Apps

If an app is acting up, uninstall and reinstall it to fix potential bugs or corrupted files.

Advanced Tips for Power Users

If you’re comfortable with more technical steps, these can offer a significant speed boost.

Upgrade Hardware (Desktops/Laptops Only)

Add More RAM: More memory allows your system to handle more tasks at once.
Switch to an SSD: Solid-state drives are much faster than traditional hard drives.

Reset System Settings

As a last resort, resetting your system can resolve deep-rooted issues:

Windows: Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC.
Mac: Use macOS Recovery to reinstall the OS.
iPad: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad.

Use Resource Monitoring Tools

Windows: Resource Monitor or Task Manager.
Mac: Activity Monitor.

These tools help identify apps that are using too much CPU, memory, or disk space.

iPad-Specific Tips

iPads can slow down over time too. Here’s how to keep them running smoothly:

Clear Safari Cache

Go to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.

Disable Background App Refresh

Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and turn it off for non-essential apps.

Restart or Reset Settings

Restart your iPad regularly. If issues persist, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset All Settings.

Keep Your Devices Running Smoothly

Speeding up a slow computer or tablet doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tech tips and a little regular maintenance, you can keep your Windows PC, Mac, or iPad running like new.

For more expert how-to guides, visit the Google Keith knowledge base – your trusted source for digital solutions, troubleshooting help, and practical advice.

Have a question or a tip of your own? Share it in the comments or explore more articles to master your tech with confidence.