My Computer Is Running Slow
Basic steps to diagnose and improve a slow computer before escalating to IT support.
Restart Your Computer
A full restart (not sleep/hibernate) clears temporary files and resets memory. Click Start → Power → Restart. If the computer hasn't been restarted in over a week, this alone often resolves slowness.
Check Running Programs
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Sort by CPU or Memory usage. If a single program is using excessive resources, try closing and reopening it. Common culprits: web browsers with many tabs, Outlook with large mailboxes, video conferencing apps.
Check Disk Space
Open File Explorer and check your C: drive free space. If under 10% free, your computer will slow significantly. Delete old downloads, empty the Recycle Bin, and run Disk Cleanup. If you need help identifying large files, submit a ticket.
When to Call Support
If the issue persists after restart and basic cleanup, submit a ticket. Include: when it started, whether it's constant or intermittent, and any recent software installs. Persistent slowness may indicate a failing drive or malware.
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