My computer is running very slow, is a common complaint that people have. They are trying to figure out how to get it to speed up without having to spend hundreds of dollars in repairs. Before you take it to the repair store, there are ways to speed up a slow machine and get it running at top speed again and you can save your money.

There are three reasons why your computer may be running slowly, and none of them require you to pay a lot of money to a technician.

1. Spyware

Spyware is a problem for any Internet user. You can visit a web site, and without even downloading anything, have unwanted files placed on your computer. While these are usually minimally problematic, the programs that could be installed onto your computer could be able to cause all sorts of problems ranging from slowing your computer down to causing errors in the programs. Some spyware files might even come with a malicious code that can threaten the privacy of your computer and your system’s integrity.

Download software that you can find for free, or for a fee and scan your system regularly for spyware to clear it off your machine.

2. A Virus

There is no doubt that viruses can do a lot of damage to your computer. Some people only have small problems that cause the system to slow down. Most viruses can leave your computer at risk and some viruses are simply designed to make a system unusable.

Download quality virus scanning software and use it regularly. The best kind runs all the time to prevent viruses from getting on your system in the first place.

3. A Full Hard Drive

If you say, “My computer is running very slow” you probably have noticed that your hard drive is nearly full. The more information and files that you have stored on your computer, the slower it can run. You should download a registry cleaner or repair program and use a clean up or defragmenter program that comes with your computer. And don’t be afraid to delete programs you’re not using, the more space your computer has, the faster it will run.