Just like a car needs regular oil changes and tune-ups, your computer requires consistent maintenance to perform at its best. Over time, digital clutter, outdated software, and fragmented files can slow down even the fastest PC, leading to frustrating crashes, long boot times, and sluggish performance. But keeping your system in top shape doesn’t have to be a chore. A simple, proactive routine can make a world of difference.

At AS Computer Solutions here in Onoway, we see the results of neglected maintenance all the time. The good news is, most of the issues we fix could have been prevented with a little bit of regular upkeep. We’ve put together a simple, 5-step checklist you can follow once a month—or even once every few months—to keep your PC running clean, fast, and reliably for years to come.

So, before you panic about a slow computer, try this ultimate PC startup checklist.

✅ 1. Tidy Up Your Desktop and Downloads Folder

Think of your computer’s storage like a physical office. A cluttered desk makes it hard to find things and slows you down. The same goes for your digital space.

Why it helps: Having a clean desktop and organized files makes it easier for your computer’s operating system to locate files, leading to faster access times. It also reduces visual clutter, which can boost your productivity.
How to do it:
- Desktop: Delete unnecessary shortcuts and files. Create folders to organize what you need to keep.
- Downloads: This folder is a common culprit for clutter. Go through it and delete old installers, duplicate files, and documents you no longer need. For anything you want to keep, move it to a dedicated folder in your Documents or Pictures library.

🛠️ 2. Update Your Software and Operating System

Outdated software is not only a security risk but can also be a major source of bugs and performance issues. Developers constantly release patches and improvements that can make your system run more efficiently.

Why it helps: Updates fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and often include performance optimizations that can make your PC feel faster.
How to do it:
- Windows Updates: Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security (Windows 10) or Windows Update (Windows 11) and click “Check for updates.”
- Drivers: You can often update drivers automatically through Windows Update, but for critical components like your graphics card, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) for the latest drivers.
- Applications: Open your most-used applications (web browser, antivirus software, creative tools) and look for an “Update” option in their settings or help menus.

📌 3. Clean Out Your Temporary Files and Cache

Over time, your PC accumulates temporary files, browser cache, and other junk data that can hog storage space and slow down performance. Clearing this out is like taking out the digital trash.

Why it helps: It frees up valuable disk space and can speed up your web browsing experience by forcing the browser to load fresh data.
How to do it:
- Windows: Press Windows Key + R, type cleanmgr.exe, and hit Enter. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:) and check the boxes for “Temporary files,” “Temporary Internet Files,” and “Recycle Bin.” Click “OK.”
- Browser: In your web browser’s settings, find the “Clear browsing data” option. Select “Cache” and “Cookies” and clear the data.

⚠️ 4. Review Your Startup Programs

Every time you turn on your computer, many programs launch automatically in the background. The more programs you have set to start up, the longer your computer will take to boot and the more resources will be consumed right from the get-go.

Why it helps: Disabling unnecessary startup programs can drastically reduce your boot time and free up system resources.
How to do it:
- Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Review the list of programs. For any program that you don’t need to run immediately, right-click and select “Disable.” Be cautious not to disable critical programs like your antivirus software.

🔄 5. Run a System Health Check (Disk and Malware Scan)

Just as you get a yearly physical, your PC needs a regular check-up to ensure its health. This involves checking for hard drive errors and scanning for malicious software.

Why it helps: Disk errors can lead to data corruption and system crashes. Malware can steal your data, slow down your computer, and cause unpredictable behavior.
How to do it:
- Hard Drive Scan: Open File Explorer, right-click on your main drive (usually C:), and select Properties. Go to the Tools tab and click “Check” under “Error checking.”
- Malware Scan: Use a reputable antivirus program like Windows Defender (built into Windows) or a third-party option. Run a full system scan to detect and remove any threats.

🧰 Still Need a Hand with Your PC’s Health?

While these steps can solve many common issues, sometimes a slow or misbehaving computer has a deeper problem, like a hardware fault, a complex virus, or a corrupted operating system file. If you’ve gone through this checklist and your PC is still acting up, don’t stress—AS Computer Solutions is here to help.

We can:

Perform advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the root cause of your performance issues.
Professionally clean out your system’s software and hardware.
Repair or replace faulty components.
Provide personalized advice to keep your PC running like new.

🏡 Local. Reliable. Ready to Help.

Serving Onoway and surrounding communities, AS Computer Solutions is your go-to for friendly, affordable tech support. We’re here to help you get the most out of your technology, so you can focus on what matters most.

Don’t let a slow computer slow you down. Try this checklist first, and if you’re still stuck, give us a shout. We’ll get your PC—and your productivity—back on track.

Call or visit us today: 📞 (780) 967 0215 🌐 www.ascomputersolutions.ca 📍 Onoway, Alberta 📧 [email protected]

The Ultimate PC Startup Checklist: 5 Things to Do to Keep Your System Running Smoothly