This is a common question among PC users. Most computer users will encounter systems that are slow and unresponsive at some point of their computer using lives. If you think that owning a recently purchased computer exempts you from this problem, you are sadly mistaken. Even the latest computers will slow down eventually if preventive measures aren't taken. Let's examine several simple steps we can take to speed up our computer.

#1 Registry cleaner

Every computer has a registry. Information stored in registries can never be deleted nor removed. Instead, this information gets overwritten multiple times. As such, this increases the chances of corrupted and redundant files. Having too much irrelevant information stored in the registry can cause the computers slow down. This is because the computer now has to wade through a junkyard full of digital waste before reaching to the information it wants. To ensure that your registry stays junk-free, simply use a registry cleaner to clear out all redundant files. A registry cleaner will help you to sieve out corrupted files and ensure that only the right set of information is being stored in the registry. RegCure and Reg Mechanic two of the most popular registry cleaners that you can find off the shelves in any computer shop. But if you think that you are not ready to part with your money, then try using the all-free CCleaner. It works just as well as other paid registry cleaners too.

#2 Regular defragmentation

Don't be a stranger to defragmentation. Defragmentation is a simple, yet effective tool that can be your computer's best friend. Conducting regular defragmentation is encouraged as it helps to sort out files and folders that might have gone missing. The best thing about defragmentation is that is it free for all Windows users. Just be prepared to leave your PC overnight as defragmentation can take quite some time.

#3 Minimize the use of numerous applications at one go

Everyone is guilty of this; MSN Messenger, Microsoft Word, Windows Media Player and Internet Explorer all running simultaneously. Multi-tasking is always desirable, but what happens when too many tasks are being executed at the same time? If your RAM is big enough, then chances are you will not have to worry about programs freezing when you try opening them. If you have insufficient RAM, your computer could freeze or slow down. It is best when you try to minimize the number of applications running at all times.

These are just some of the examples that you can use to get your computer running at tiptop speed. These simple methods have been proven to be effective and have been used by computer experts all over the world for years. Best of all, is that you can follow these simple steps without having to pay for expensive software. Just remember to conduct regular computer checks to ensure that bugs, viruses and spywares are not infesting your monolithic trove of digital treasure.