My computer is slow

Dust and heat

• Note whether the computer feels hot, the fans run loudly, or it slows after ten or twenty minutes of use. Dust and blocked vents can raise temperatures and force the machine to throttle.
• Safe checks stop at noticing heat and noise. Do not open a laptop or vacuum inside vents with high suction. If heat is part of the problem, dust removal belongs in a repair visit, not as a promised tune-up on its own.

Full storage

• Compare opening a file already on the computer with loading a website. If only websites are slow, check whether another device on the same Wi-Fi has the same problem before chasing storage.
• On the computer itself, check free space on the main drive. A nearly full drive can make starts, saves and updates crawl. Note any warnings about low disk space before deleting folders you are unsure about.

Low memory

• Save your work and close apps you no longer need. Note whether the slowdown is constant or appears only with one program, many browser tabs, or after the computer has been on for hours.
• If Task Manager or Activity Monitor shows memory near its limit while the drive still has free space, more RAM or lighter software may matter more than another cleanup pass. Avoid downloading a cleaner or driver updater from an advert.

Replacement decision points

• Ask whether the machine still does the jobs you need, how old it is, and whether a storage or memory upgrade would cover those jobs for long enough to be worth it.
• Repeated crashes, failing storage, unsupported Windows versions or hardware that cannot take a useful upgrade all push toward replacement. Weigh that beside an upgrade quote rather than after a cleaner download.

When to stop and ask for help

Pause cleanup attempts if files disappear, the drive makes unusual noises or the computer repeatedly crashes. Avoid downloading a cleaner or driver updater from an advert. Back up important files before making major changes.

What we can check with you

We can check heat and airflow clues, storage health and free space, memory use, startup activity and the software involved. That helps explain whether dust and heat need attention during a repair visit, whether an upgrade fits, or whether replacement is the clearer path.

If the computer is otherwise sound, more memory or new storage may help. See computer upgrades for what to check before buying parts.

Thinking about a new machine instead? Our guide on whether to repair or replace a computer compares the full cost of each.

A sudden slowdown with pop-ups or software you did not install can be malware. See virus and malware removal.

Still on Windows 10? Our guide to Windows 10 end of support compares Windows 11, extended security updates, a new PC and Linux.

For a slow MacBook or iMac, see Mac and MacBook repairs.

Your PC FIX-IT contact is Mark Zoro Segec. Tell him what you have already tried before arranging the next step.

Official guidance

• Microsoft's Windows performance guide: Official guidance for common causes of a slow Windows PC. Check what a step changes before applying it.

What to have ready

1. Tell us when it feels slow: starting up, browsing, opening files or using a particular app.
2. Mention the age of the computer and any recent changes or error messages.
3. Ask about repair and upgrade options before spending money on a replacement.

Talk through the options

Describe the problem, your suburb and the best way to reach you. We will discuss what help is appropriate and arrange a time if a visit is needed.

Get a quote before we start

Same-day, next-day and urgent call-outs available. Travel fees may apply for locations more than one hour from Perth CBD. Confirm the scope and total cost before work starts.