Troubleshooting a Slow Computer

If you need to troubleshoot a slow computer, here are some questions that should be asked.

1. When was the last time you have restarted your computer? Not just closing the lid. 
   
   

2. How long has the slowness been noticeable?

   1. Were there any recent updates to the computer?
      
      

3. Is the computer taking longer than normal to start up?

1. At what point does it seem to slow down?

   1. ex: Once it gets to the windows screen
   2. ex: Once I open a browser or application. 
      
      

4. Are there certain programs that are taking a longer time to start?

   1. Are programs running slower than usual?

      1. ex: Microsoft Word letters not appearing right away.
         
         

5. How much memory do you have left on the computer?

   1. Windows: This PC > under the drive icons there should be a bar to show how much space you have used. Check to see if the bar is red and almost full.

   2. Mac: Menu(top) bar > Apple icon > About this Mac > Storage
      
      

6. Does the bottom of the device get very hot when using it?
   
   

7. Do the cooling fans get loud? How long do they stay on?
   
   

8. Does it crash and completely turn off? 
   
   

9. Is the waiting cursor (rainbow wheel on a mac, blue circle on a PC) appearing?

   
   

10. Does it slow down when you are using a internet browser?

    1. Are web pages taking longer than usual to load?

    2. Are there new or unusual pop-up windows appearing?

    3. Has the default search engine in your browser changed?

    4. Has the default home page in your browser changed?