Why your devices have low performance
Reliable technology is a critical factor in today’s 24/7/365 business world, with availability and performance playing a critical role in the growth and success of organisations. However, given the increasing dependence on devices in the workplace, there is a possibility that they may not function when needed the most.
Low performance of devices can have a significant impact on a company’s productivity and can be as expensive as employee absences. That’s why it’s important to look for these common reasons why computer performance sometimes falls.
Memory
Running out of RAM, or your computer’s memory is one of the leading causes of low performance in today’s technologically advanced world. With the increasing number of software applications and programs, your computer’s RAM can quickly become depleted, resulting in slow processing speeds that can be frustrating and time-consuming. Low RAM can also cause your computer to crash, leading to data loss and system failures.
Applications
Having multiple applications running in the background is a common phenomenon. However, having too many background applications can significantly impact system performance, leading to low performance levels. When there are too many applications running in the background, they consume valuable system resources, such as processing power and memory, which can slow down the computer’s overall performance.
Running multiple applications at the same time can cause system overload, which can lead to a lag in performance, affecting the overall functionality of the computer. Having too many background applications running simultaneously can cause a bottleneck effect on both the CPU and the RAM, thereby reducing the system’s processing speed.
Malware
Malicious software, commonly known as malware, adware or spyware, is still the top reason for a sluggish computer. These pesky programs are often downloaded unknowingly from deceitful websites, which then use your system resources to deliver ads and collect sensitive marketing data. Ironically, some of these programs claim to boost your PC’s performance. However, once installed, they only introduce further issues and may even scam you for money and personal information.
Software
A lot of devices end up with multiple copies of software that perform the same function. The main culprits are anti-virus and anti-malware programs. When you purchase a new computer, it usually comes with a pre-installed antivirus program. Without realising it, you may end up installing another antivirus program. Both programs run in the background, scanning every program you open and downloading files for any signs of viruses. Running both programs simultaneously can significantly slow down your computer. Removing a redundant program can speed up certain functions by almost double the speed.
Hard drives
Typically, hard drives are not the fastest components of a computer. However, they store valuable data like the operating system, software, and files. When hard drives become fragmented, they can slow down the speed of opening programs or documents. Regular maintenance such as defragmentation or upgrading to a solid-state drive can help to fix this issue and increase access times.
Legacy technology
As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the lifespan of devices seems to be getting shorter and shorter. It’s a common observation that devices tend to slow down as they get older, which can be quite frustrating for users. This low performance can be attributed to a variety of factors, but one of the most significant is legacy technology. As newer, more advanced software and hardware become available, older devices simply can’t keep up. This can lead to decreased productivity, increased frustration, and even security risks.
Boost your business performance with the IT experts
Preventing low performance is essential for any business that relies on technology to function and succeed. The IT consultants at Virtu can help protect and support your business IT infrastructure to ensure you get the most from your IT assets.