Whether you have a PC or a Mac or you run a different operating system, there are always risks that your computer will slow down. Many people see Apple Macs as superior to PCs, but that doesn’t stop them from being susceptible to being slowed down by a number of problems with the system. If you’ve notice that your Mac has started to slow down, there are several things you can do to fix it. Lots of things could be causing the slowness, including too much clutter on your hard drive. Use the tips below to get your Mac back to its full speed and get rid of any lagging or slowness.
Close Unused Apps
One of the more obvious ways to speed up your Mac is to close any apps that you aren’t using. These apps could be taking up a lot of CPU, which is pointless if you aren’t using them. Close any programs that you aren’t using by choosing Quit in the Dock or using Command+Q in the App Switcher. Make sure you can see any apps that might be running in the background. Open System Preferences and click Dock so you can check that there’s a tick next to Show Indicator Lights for Applications.
Reset PRAM and SMC
You can use SMC and PRAM resets to speed up Mac computers. PRAM stands for “parameter random access memory” and is a small part of your computer’s memory. This area stores certain settings for the Mac to access quickly. You can reset the PRAM by shutting down your Mac, then turning it back on as you hold down the Option, Command, P and R keys. Use System Settings to restore any preferences that this move removes. Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) can help to eliminate problems too. This involves removing the power supply (including the battery in some models) and holding down the power button.
Free Hard Drive Space
Freeing up your hard drive space could help to speed up your Mac. It’s good to keep some room – about 10% of your total memory is a good idea. First, delete anything in your trash that you’re unlikely to need to restore. Get rid of any unwanted files in download folders and other areas that you don’t want or need. You can also try using a tool to scan your computer for files that don’t need to be on your Mac. Some files will just be weighing down your Mac as junk, and your computer doesn’t need to use them.
Remove Unwanted Programs
Get rid of any unwanted software to free up more space on your Mac. If you aren’t using it, you don’t need it. You might need to be strict with yourself as if you’re clearing out your wardrobe. Don’t tell yourself you might use it one day. You can drop apps straight into the trash or use a program like App Zapper, which will identify the dead weight in your app collection.
