5 Reasons why your computer needs MAINTENANCE

1. Not Enough of Free Hard Drive Space

Free hard drive space is simply the amount of space on the hard drive that can be written to and that isn’t in use. While free space is used to stores files and data, it also functions to allow swap file space and virtual memory required for the programs to operate, for example, while creating temporary files.

---

2. Hardware conflicts and outdated drivers

A hardware conflict occurs when two devices try to use the same resource, such as an IRQ or memory address, producing an error. For example, if a hardware device in the computer shares the same IO port as another device that would result in a hardware conflict. In modern day hardware conflicts are less common because by using plug-n-play (PnP) manages each of the hardware devices installed in the computer for the user.

---

3. Computer or processor is overheating

The processor is one of the most energy-intensive and literally hottest components. The electrical current constantly passing through the circuits of a CPU creates heat. ( The temperature of your CPU depends on the model and its usage.) Make sure your computer and processor are not overheating. Excessive heat can cause a significant decrease in computer performance some processors will even lower the speed of the processor automatically to help compensate for the heat related issues. The optimal temperature range of a CPU generally resides between 70 and 90 degrees Celsius in modern processors. The smaller the computer, the higher the temperature. Without a fan, some computers may suffer irreparable damage. Make sure your computer’s fan is not flawed, you can also add more fans in addition to your regular power-supply fan.

---

4. Hardware Failure

If your computer continues to be slow after going over each of the above recommendations it’s possible that your computer is experiencing a more serious hardware related issue such as a failing component in the computer. This could be a failing or bad hard drive, CPU, RAM. In this case, it may be best and more cost effective to simply buy a new computer.

---

5. Your PC requires a Memory upgrade

If you’ve had your computer for more than one year it’s likely your computer is not meeting the memory requirements for today. Today, we suggest at a minimum the computer have 1GB of memory.

To determine an amount of available system resources, including memory, and performance/usage, open the Task Manager. In the Processes tab, you will be able to see what programs are using what resources. In the Performance tab, you will have can see an overall picture of all the system resources