How to Boost Your Device Performance in 5 Simple Steps
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Learn how to quickly improve your device's speed and performance with these five easy and effective steps. From clearing unnecessary files to optimizing startup programs, follow our guide to get your device running like new again.
How to Boost Your Device's Performance in 5 Simple Steps
Are you frustrated with how slow your device is running? Whether it's a laptop, smartphone, or desktop, device performance can degrade over time. Fortunately, there are several simple things you can do to bring your device's speed back up. Follow these five straightforward steps to boost your device's performance:
1. Clear Out Unnecessary Files
One of the quickest ways to free up space and improve your device's performance is by removing unnecessary files. These can include cached files, old downloads, and browser histories that take up precious storage space. Use the built-in tools rather than third-party "cleaner" apps:
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Windows 11: Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files, or turn on Storage Sense to clean up automatically. Disk Cleanup also still works.
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Mac: Apple menu > System Settings > General > Storage shows recommendations such as Optimize Storage.
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Android: Settings > Storage (or the Files by Google app's Clean tab). iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
A nearly full drive slows a computer down noticeably. If you can't tell what is filling it, see storage full - how to find what is taking up disk space.
2. Uninstall Unused Programs
Over time, we tend to install programs that we no longer use. These programs consume system resources, slowing down your device. Go through your apps and programs, uninstall the ones you no longer need, and make sure to clear any leftover files.
3. Optimize Startup Programs
Many applications automatically start when you power on your device, using up memory and processing power. Disable unnecessary startup programs to speed up your boot time and free up system resources. On Windows 11, open Settings > Apps > Startup (or Task Manager > Startup apps) and turn off programs you don't need straight away. On a Mac, go to System Settings > General > Login Items (System Preferences > Users & Groups on older macOS versions). Leave your antivirus and anything you don't recognise as a system component on.
4. Update Your Operating System and Software
Keeping your device's operating system and software up to date ensures that you have the latest performance improvements, bug fixes, and security patches. Make sure to enable automatic updates or manually check for updates regularly.
5. Use Lighter Alternatives
Sometimes, the applications you use are simply too heavy for your device. Consider switching to lightweight alternatives that consume fewer system resources. For instance, use a basic text editor for quick notes, keep fewer browser tabs and extensions open, and turn on your browser's memory-saving feature (Chrome has Memory Saver under Settings > Performance; Edge has sleeping tabs). Older phones often run better with the "Lite" or web versions of social media apps.
Bonus: Restart Regularly and Check for Malware
Restarting clears memory and finishes pending updates; many people only ever put their PC to sleep. If a device suddenly becomes slow, shows pop-ups, or the fan runs hard while idle, run a full scan with your security software (Windows Security on Windows 10 and 11).
When the Hardware Is the Limit
On older computers, two upgrades make the biggest difference: replacing a spinning hard drive with an SSD, and adding RAM if the PC regularly uses most of its memory (check Task Manager > Performance > Memory). Phones can't be upgraded, but a battery that is badly worn can make some phones throttle performance, and a battery replacement can help.
For a deeper look at Windows PCs, see why computers slow down and how to fix them and 15 ways to improve Windows performance.
By following these five simple steps, you can significantly improve the performance of your device without needing to purchase new hardware. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your device stays fast and responsive.
If you're still facing issues after trying these tips, it might be time to consult a tech expert for further diagnostics. But most of the time, these tips will get your device back on track in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the quickest way to speed up a slow computer?
Restart it, close programs you aren't using, and turn off unneeded startup apps. Then make sure the drive has free space and Windows is up to date.
Do cleaner or booster apps make a device faster?
Usually not. The built-in tools (Storage Sense, Disk Cleanup, phone storage settings) do the same job safely; many cleaner apps add ads or run in the background themselves.
How much free space should I keep?
There is no exact rule, but a nearly full drive slows things down and stops updates installing. Keep a comfortable margin free and act when Windows or your phone warns that storage is low.
Will an SSD make my old laptop faster?
If it still has a spinning hard drive, yes - an SSD is usually the biggest single improvement in start-up and app loading times.
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