Windows 10 running slow is one of the most common frustrations among users. But with so many possible causes, full disk, malware, and startup apps, figuring out what's really slowing your system down can feel overwhelming. Should you clean the disk, scan for viruses, or just buy new hardware? If your laptop is freezing, taking forever to boot, or constantly spiking in Task Manager, you're not alone. In this guide, I'll walk you through easy-to-follow solutions to speed up Windows 10 and help you get back to a faster, more productive workflow.
Part 1: Fix Windows 10 Running Slow with Basic System Cleanup
When your Windows 10 is running slow, one of the simplest ways to boost performance is by cleaning up your system. Junk files, leftover temp data, and fragmented drives all contribute to sluggish responses and long load times. This beginner-friendly method boosts speed with a few clicks.
Step-by-Step Guide
Run Disk Cleanup:
Press Win + S, type "Disk Cleanup", and open it.
Select drive C, choose file types like Temporary files and Recycle Bin, and click OK.
Clean up system files
Click "Clean up system files" for a deeper cleanup. This option will scan for outdated system updates and log files.
Free Up Disk Space:
Make sure at least 20% of your system drive has free space.
Delete or move large personal files such as videos, downloads, and unused programs.
You can also uninstall bulky applications you no longer need.
Optimize Drive:
Type "Defragment" in the Start menu and open "Defragment and Optimize Drives."
Select your main drive, then click Optimize. For HDD users, this process reorders fragmented data, making file access faster.
Optimize Drives Windows 10
Ease of Use
This is a beginner-friendly method that almost anyone can try. If your Windows 10 running slow issue is caused by clutter or fragmentation, this step alone can make a noticeable difference without risking any system damage.
In my case, Disk Cleanup alone freed up nearly 5GB of space on my laptop. After optimizing the drive, I noticed a much faster boot time and reduced lag when launching programs. If you're wondering how to clean up your computer to run faster Windows 10, this should be your starting point. It's simple, quick, and gives immediate results.
Part 2: Fix Windows 10 Running Slow by Scanning for Malware
If your Windows 10 is running slow, malware might be silently consuming your system resources. Malicious software can trigger high disk usage, lag or even prevent basic functions from working properly. A quick scan can identify and remove threats that slow down your computer.
Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Scan with Windows Defender:
Open the Start menu and search for "Windows Security."
Go to "Virus & threat protection."
Virus & threat protection Windows 10
Click "Quick scan" to begin a fast malware check.
Virus & threat protection quick scan Windows 10
Run Full Scan if Needed:
In the Virus & threat protection window, click "Scan options."
Virus & threat protection scan options Windows 10
Choose "Full scan" to perform a deep system check. This may take an hour or more but is effective at catching stubborn threats.
Virus & threat protection full scan Windows 10
Optional: Use Malwarebytes:
Download and install Malwarebytes from the official website.
Run a full scan to identify and remove advanced malware that may not be caught by built-in protection.
Ease of Use
This method is easy and safe for all users. You don't need any technical skills to run a malware scan; just follow the on-screen instructions. Scanning your system regularly is one of the most effective ways to speed up Windows 10 and keep it running securely.
After noticing frequent freezes and unusually high CPU usage, I ran a full scan using both Windows Defender and Malwarebytes. Sure enough, Malwarebytes detected several potentially unwanted programs. Once I removed them, performance immediately improved. If you're wondering why my laptop is slow Windows 10, malware might be the hidden culprit.
Part 3: Speed Up Windows 10 by Disabling Startup Programs
Many apps are set to launch when your PC starts, eating up memory and extending boot times. If your Windows 10 is running slow, managing these startup programs can make a significant difference, especially when paired with a full system cleanup.
Step-by-Step Guide
Open Task Manager:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Click on the Startup tab to view all apps set to launch at startup.
Disable Unnecessary Programs:
Review the Startup Impact column.
Right-click on apps labeled "High" impact that you don't need immediately (e.g., Skype, OneDrive, Spotify).
Click Disable to stop them from launching during startup.
Disable Unnecessary Programs Windows 10
Advanced Option – Use Autoruns:
Download Sysinternals Autoruns from Microsoft.
Open the tool and go to the Logon tab.
Uncheck non-essential items, especially third-party applications you recognize but don't actively use.
Restart your PC to apply the changes.
Ease of Use
This method is slightly more advanced than cleanup or scanning but still accessible to average users. It just takes a little judgment to decide which apps are truly necessary. Disabling the wrong item won't crash your system, but you might miss it later, so take notes before making changes.
When I first tried this, my boot time went from 90 seconds to just under 40. I had no idea how many background apps were slowing me down until I opened Task Manager. If you're looking for a fast way to increase computer speed with Windows 10, this step is incredibly effective and free.
Part 4: Resolve Windows 10 Slow Issues with SSD Upgrade or Reinstall
If you've tried all the quick fixes and your Windows 10 is still running slow, it might be time for a deeper upgrade. Traditional hard drives (HDDs) are significantly slower than solid-state drives (SSDs), and in many cases, a clean reinstall of Windows can eliminate years of clutter. These are advanced but powerful options that deliver dramatic speed improvements.
Step-by-Step Guide
Check Your Drive Type:
Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand Disk Drives and search your drive model online to check if it's an HDD or SSD.
Device Manager Windows 10
Upgrade to SSD:
Purchase a compatible SSD for your device.
Use cloning software (like Macrium Reflect or EaseUS) to clone your current drive, or opt for a clean install.
Back up your data before proceeding.
Physically replace the HDD with the new SSD (or have a technician do it if you're unsure).
Reinstall Windows 10:
Visit Microsoft's official site and download the Media Creation Tool.
Create a bootable USB and restart your PC.
Boot from USB and choose "Custom Install."
Reinstall Windows on the SSD and format the old drive during setup.
Reinstall your apps and restore backed-up files.
Ease of Use
This is an advanced method that is best suited for users who are comfortable with hardware and system installations. However, even if you're not tech-savvy, a local technician can help with the SSD upgrade process. The performance boost is absolutely worth it.
Upgrading my old laptop from HDD to SSD was the single biggest change I've made. Boot times dropped from 2 minutes to under 15 seconds, and everything, from launching apps to browsing folders, felt instantly snappier. If you're seriously asking how to increase computer speed with Windows 10, this is the most effective solution in the long run.
Part 5: WPS Office - Lightweight and Fast After PC Optimization
Once you've optimized your system and resolved the issue of Windows 10 running slow, the last thing you want is heavy software slowing it down again. That's where WPS Office stands out; it's a lightweight, fast, and fully functional office suite that's perfect for optimized or older PCs.
WPS Office for Windows 10
Why It's Recommended
Lightweight Design:
WPS Office is noticeably faster than other suites like Microsoft Office. It opens documents quickly, consumes less RAM, and doesn't run background processes that can drag down system performance.
All-in-One Suite:
It includes Writer, Spreadsheets, and Presentation, all in one sleek application. You can edit Word docs, Excel sheets, and PowerPoint presentations without installing multiple programs.
Free & Compatible:
It supports all major Microsoft file formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx) and is available for free. You won't lose formatting when switching between WPS and other office software.
Perfect Post-Cleanup Tool:
If you've just cleaned up your PC or upgraded to an SSD, WPS Office ensures your system stays fast. Unlike bloated alternatives, it won't add extra load or slow things back down.
After upgrading to an SSD and clearing out startup programs, I tested both Microsoft Office and WPS Office side by side. WPS launched faster, consumed less memory, and offered all the tools I needed. WPS’s fast spreadsheet calculations streamlined my budgeting tasks on an older PC. For users who want a reliable office suite that won't undo their hard-earned speed improvements, WPS is a smart choice. It complements an optimized system instead of weighing it down.
FAQs
Why is my Windows 10 PC suddenly running slow?
It's usually caused by a full hard drive, too many background apps, malware, or an outdated system. High disk or memory usage in Task Manager is a common sign. Cleaning up your system and scanning for threats can resolve the issue.
Does reinstalling Windows 10 fix performance issues?
Yes, it can. Reinstalling removes all bloatware, corrupted files, and unnecessary programs, giving your PC a fresh start. If you're still wondering why my laptop is slow Windows 10, a clean reinstall is often the most effective reset.
What's the fastest way to speed up Windows 10?
Start with Disk Cleanup and remove junk files. Then, disable startup programs to reduce boot time. If performance is still sluggish, upgrade to an SSD for a dramatic boost. These steps will quickly speed up Windows 10 and improve responsiveness.
Summary
If your Windows 10 is running slow, you're not alone, but you're also not stuck. From basic disk cleanup to full SSD upgrades, there are multiple ways to bring your PC back to life. Start with beginner-friendly steps like removing junk files, scanning for malware, and disabling unnecessary startup programs. For a more significant boost, consider reinstalling Windows or upgrading to an SSD.
Once your system is optimized, it's important to choose software that maintains that performance. WPS Office is a perfect example; it delivers full office functionality without weighing down your newly cleaned-up system. Lightweight, fast, and compatible with Microsoft file formats, it keeps your PC running smoothly while you stay productive.
