Expert: James Filmer - 12/28/2010

Question
Hi, my computer is about 1 year old and has slowed down quite a bit.  I have Norton security suite and it is set to run regular scans, defrag, delete files, and keep the system healthy.  But obviousy it is not doing a good enough job.

I know I have a ton of programs running behind the scenes, but I'm not sure which I can turn off, because I don't know what many of them are.

I am looking for some advice on what I should run to speed up my computer.  There are several websites out there like Myfasterpc.com.  Should I use one of them?  If so, which is best?  Or should I use a spyware program?  If so, which?


I am a pretty basic internet user and do not go to risky sites.  I don't have an unusual amount of software running.


Any advice would be much appreciated.  Thanks!

Answer
scott,

As you know, part of the problem is your lack of knowledge and experience. So, we'll do the best we can. It could also be Norton's security suite (some versions tend to use a lot of system resources). Which one do you have? What's system?

Could be some form of malware or virus Norton didn't catch. Does your Norton actually do all those things automatically? Perhaps you should begin by turning them all off and conducting scans, defragging, deleting files...manually. See:

netsecurity.about.com/od/readproductreviews/gr/nis2009.htm

But, the following is another opinion:
www.ehow.com/about_5333653_norton-slow-computer-down.html

There are quite a few reasons for a slow machine, and websites like the one you mentioned aren't the answer (in my opinion), if you really want to keep full control of your machine. Following is quote from their web site:

"BACKUP RESPONSIBILITY. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is a system utility, and as such can make irreversible changes to the state of computer on which it is run and that Consumer Software International cannot accurately predict or ensure the outcome in all possible scenarios, and therefore purchaser agrees to make and test a complete system backup and backup of all personal information before operating the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. You agree that you accept all responsibility for reversing or correcting any changes made by the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.

NO PERFORMANCE WARRANTY. Consumer Software International specifically disclaims any warranty for the amount of performance increase or utility provided by the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. By purchasing this software and accepting this EULA you specifically agree that you understand that no representation or warranty is made by Consumer Software International that the SOFTWARE PRODUCT will necessarily increase performance or provide a utility benefit on your computer, and that no claim of specific deficiency, defect, or under performance has been made with respect to your computer. Any claims of performance increases or utility made for the software are those of possible or potential improvement or utility, and no warranty is offered that a specific utility or amount of performance increase, if any, will be realized on any particular computer. Each computer is different..."

The point is, each personal computer is unique. They don't guarantee anything.

We're limited here to a few replies, so first, you said you have a ton of programs running - please give as many as possible. Perhaps you could provide a hijackthis log, but if that's too technical

At the end you said, "don't have an unusual amount of software running." Not sure what you mean.

Enrgy21.com can help each with links to sites that provide accurate and safe free info for novices - free, also provide private Internet support.

On thing for certain, be very careful taking advice from free sites, or buying product that says it will fix everything.

I would NOT do things all the things suggested on the following site. Use your favorite search engine to find all kinds of info. and download the WOT tool for your browser. If you're using IE, get Firefox.

howtodothings.com/computers/a3415-how-to-make-your-computer-faster.html

Well do the best I can to help with my next reply.