Thanks for the good advice, my computer has been running very slow lately and i can't even do my college work anymore. Let alone log in to sites.
So will this virus thing help better my computer and get it back running normal? My computer is still new and as of today ( Sunday) it's only a week old.
Thanks also to everyone who commented. ld have to take to make use my computer is running smoothly again because i have no idea what to do when it comes to computers and viruses
What security program do you have on your computer?
If you bought it new, it normally will have a limited free security program already loaded (ie McAfee or Norton are common.)
If you got it used, you may only have what the seller had and that may have expired.
If you do not have an Security Icon on your desktop, check your Program listings (click Start and then All Programs to see what you have.) Click on your security program and have it SCAN your PC for viruses etal.
If you can't find or don't have a security program, suggest you get one asap. There are several good freeware programs available. I use Avast, but Microsoft also has one available.
While I use CCleaner to clear my cookies and temp files, you can clear your cookies and temps by using the process build into Windows:
Click on "Tools" in the upper right hand portion of your IE Window, Click on "Internet Options". Find the Browsing Internet section and click "Delete".
This will take you to a new window where you can select what you want to delete. I usually delete all history, cookies and temporary files.
Depending on how long it's been storing temp files on your PC, this process can take a few minutes. Then click Okay/Close when you're done.
If you have only had your computer for a week, and it is noticably slower over just that time, it could easily be a virus (if you no security program) or it could just be a problem with your ISP connection or a size limitation on your computer's working memory.
I use to have a dial up ISP. Worked reasonably well for me for years -- before I tried to do videos and a lot of PTC work. But it became impossibly slow when Verizon's copper wiring started to fail so I finally (kicking and screaming) switched to cable broadband. Major improvement! I'm now on Verizon Fios and while I don't sense a major improvement over cable, it does seem consistent speed wise.
The size of your computer's working memory (R A M), can also have an impact on how well it will perform -- especially if you are multitasking. If you have less than .5 GB (gigabyte) of R A M, that will have an impact. If more than 2 GB, then that should not be the source of your slowdown. The processing speed is also relavent (X.XX GHz)
When I can't figure out what the problem is, I take my computer to my closest Staples store. The tech staff is very helpful and has helped me understand and solve a variety of problems over the years.