10 Quick Ways To Make Your Windows Pc Run Faster [updated]

Anyone who’s ever bought a PC will agree that without proper housekeeping, overall performance is guaranteed to gradually decline as time goes by. One would argue that the same applies to just about every other gadget out there, so there’s no need to beat yourself up about it.

Much as PC end-of-life is inevitable in the long run, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t postpone that eventuality for as long as possible. You indeed can make Windows PC faster.

While a number of tweaks can be done in the Registry, we will stay away from that for now, seeing as something can easily go wrong at inexpert hands. Our fixes are quick and as simple as it gets. So then, how about we have a look at 10 quick ways to make your PC run faster?

1. Disable Autostart programs

The first thing you will probably notice is a longer startup time. If a PC that used to startup in less than a minute now takes 5 minutes or more, the first culprit is usually apps that autostart every time you log in. These hog valuable system resources even before the PC loads and continue running in the background hence slowing down the system. Our first quick fix is to head over to the Task Manager and disable any apps that affect startup impact

Related: 10 easy ways to Speed Up your slow computer

Windows 8 and above:

Right click on the task bar and select Task Manager (Or press the Windows Key and type Task Manager in Search) Advertisement - Continue reading below »Select Startup »Right click on any startup app to disable.

For Windows 7 users:

Press Windows Key+R (Or press the Windows Key and type Run in Search) »Type msconfig to open the Systems Configuration window »Select the Startup tab >Right click on any startup app to disable

2. Disk Cleanup to make your Windows PC run faster

Windows’ very own Disk Cleanup maintenance utility is quite useful in reducing clutter and in the process freeing up valuable storage space. Disk Cleanup gets rid of unwanted system files, downloaded program files, temporary files and all that junk in the Recycle Bin. Less clutter translates into fewer system resources wasted sifting through files you don’t even need.

Windows 10 has a feature called Storage Sense that you can configure to automatically free up space when it starts running low. Storage Sense will delete temporary files and empty the Recycle Bin on a monthly basis.

Press the Windows Key and type Disk Cleanup (Or press Win+R and type cleanmgr in the RUN window) »Select the Drive you want to clean and press Enter »You can also select Clean up system files to eliminate unwanted system files

3. Uninstall Unused/Obsolete software

Over the years we download dozens of apps, many of which we don’t actually use on the daily. Do you really need all 5 web browsers? Or all those media players? So somebody told you Photoshop is the app to use, so you downloaded it and yet the Photos app suits your basic needs just fine. If you must know, all this software often has running services in the background that works to slow down your PC. Our advice is to only have the software you actually need and use.

Press the Windows Key and type Add or remove programs in the search box »(Alternatively, type Control Panel in any open desktop window and press Enter) »Select Uninstall a program

4. Defragment and Optimize Drives

Fragmented data on a PC is saved in fragments spread across your drive. Your PC has to work extra hard to look for all these fragments when the need arises slowing down the time it takes to open a particular file. That’s why it’s advised to use the Disk Defragment utility to organise all these fragments for faster access. . However, it’s not advisable to defrag your SSD drive. Solid State Drives are a different kettle of fish altogether.

How to defragment/Optimise your hard disk

Click the Start button. In the search box, type Defragment and Optimise Drives and select the app. »In Disk Defrag, select the Hard disk you want to defragment. If you have an SSD, you don’t have to defrag it. Advertisement - Continue reading below »Click Analyze . Windows will show the percentage of fragmentation. Anything below 10% doesn’t require defragmenting. »Click Optimize if your drive needs defragmenting. The entire process might take several minutes of even a few hours, depending on the size of the drive and the percentage of fragmentation. You can minimize the window and continue using your PC in the meantime.

Program your Disk Defragment to run automatically in the background for a hassle-free process. Click on Change Settings [refer to image above] and set it to Daily, Weekly, or Monthly. Afterwards, you can sit back and relax and you never have to do it again.

5. Increase Virtual Memory

Virtual Memory is memory set aside by the PC to work as regular RAM. While not as fast as regular RAM, Virtual Memory does help relieve stress on physical memory in a pinch. If you must know, it’s recommended for RAM not to be more than 1.5 of the actual RAM installed on your PC. The secret formula for working out how much Virtual memory you can use is 1024 x (amount of RAM you have) x 1.5

To increase virtual Memory

In File Explorer, right-click on This PC/My Computer. Select Properties »In the System window, click Advanced System Settings »In the Performance window, click Settings »Under Performance Options, click the Advanced tab Advertisement - Continue reading below »Under Virtual Memory below, click Change »Unselect Automatically manage paging file size for all drives »Click on Custom size and use the formula 1024 x (current RAM) x 1.5 »Click Set and OK

6. Buy more RAM

Windows recommends at least 2 GB RAM for 32-bit Windows OS and 4 GB minimum for the 64-bit OS. However, that RAM quickly fills up once you download RAM-heavy apps like Chrome and the Adobe suite. Using Virtual memory will give you some respite, but let’s be honest, nothing quite works like RAM.

Our best bet is to buy more RAM chips so that programs have a more spacious playing field. We would like to point out that 32-bit Operating Systems can only take advantage of up to 4 GB of RAM. Any more you add will just be redundant, and frankly a waste of money. Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise/Education 64 bit supports up to 512 GB of RAM if you can fit it all in, that is. Windows 10 Home 64 bit supports a decent 128 GB.

7. Upgrade your Drive to an SSD, a faster HDD or Hybrid Drive

Most PCs on the market today ship with a Hard Disk Drive running 5400 RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). These drives are quite affordable but not as fast as their 7200RPM cousins. High-end drives which rotate at 10,000 or 15,000 RPM exist, but are not marketed for data storage. So then, HDDs with 7200 RPM are guaranteed to make your Windows PC run faster.

Related: Solid State Hybrid Drive (SSHD) is a sweet spot between SSD and HDD drives

On the flip side, you also have Hybrid and full-fledged SSDs (Solid State Drives) to choose from. Hybrid Drives are a merger between HDDs and SSDs to take advantage of the speed improvements of the latter while retaining HDD storage capabilities. Personally, we would recommend SSDs due to their improved performance.

8. Change Power Plan to High Performance

Windows recommends the Balanced Power Plan which balances performance with capable hardware. In doing so, CPU horsepower is somewhat throttled to make sure your battery takes as long as it possibly can. However, if you are connected to power, these throttles are unnecessary.

In Windows 10, all you have to do is click on the power icon on your taskbar. Adjust the dial for Best battery life, Better performance, or Best performance.

9. Customize folder content

Default folders in File Explorer comprise Downloads, Documents, Music, Pictures & Videos. What you may not know is that Windows optimizes these folders for the respective files. For instance, your PC will take longer to open music files placed in the Pictures folder. The key is to customize a folder based on the content. For this reason, I optimize my Downloads folder for General items, as I download all manner of things off the internet.

To customize folder content

Right click on a folder icon in This PC/My Computer and select Properties »Select the Customize tab under folder properties. »Click on the drop-down under ‘Optimize this folder for’. Choose between General items, Documents, Music, Pictures and Videos. »Tick the box to also apply this template to all sub-folders. »Click Apply and OK.

10. Use lighter software

This is perhaps the best advice we can give. Nobody will think less of you if you got yourself lighter alternatives to popular software that your machine can handle. Everybody knows that Google Chrome is a resource-hog. So is the Adobe Creative Suite. Microsoft Office 2016 will take forever to load on a low-end machine, where Office 2013 is lean is super-fast. Others include Paint.Net, Open/Libre Office, Midori browser, and more. A lighter software conserves system resources for other apps to use. In the process, this will make your PC run faster.

Featured image: www.zastavki.com

Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

• SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
• Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
• Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
• Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

• CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
• MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
• MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
• TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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