How to troubleshoot a computer that starts or performs slowly.

WARNING: There is a risk of data loss. Ensure to back up any important data before running a full recovery of the system.

Follow these steps to troubleshoot why the computer is performing or running slowly or has stopped responding.

NOTES:

• When troubleshooting slow performance using the steps below, some steps may take an extended time to complete. Move on to the next step and complete the unused steps at a later time.
• Upgrading the system memory is likely to improve performance.

1. Restart the computer into Safe Mode with Networking .

   NOTES:

   • Starting the computer in Safe Mode with Networking will ensure that all unnecessary background applications are closed, and will also clear the print queue.
   • Safe Mode with Networking will also allow testing of Internet connection capability.
2. To ensure applications that load when the computer starts are not causing the computer to slow down, remove unused or infrequently used applications from startup.
3. Configure power options for optimal performance.

   NOTES:

   • Configure the turn off hard disk time to the lowest setting.
   • Some computer models include the VAIO Power Management application which can be configured to increase performance. Check the user guide for availability and usage.
   • Configuring power options for increased performance usually decreases battery life.
4. Delete any unnecessary files using the Disk Cleanup utility .
5. Ensure the Show translucent selection rectangle option is disabled.

6. Disable the Indexing service.

   NOTE: When enabled, the Indexing service periodically creates an index of the files on the hard drive. When the Indexing service is running, the system performance may decrease, but the index allows for faster file searching.

   1. Click the Start button and then click My Computer.
   2. In the My Computer window, right-click on the appropriate hard disk drive and then click Properties.

      NOTE: The Indexing service can be independently configured on each hard disk drive or partition.

   3. In the Properties window, click to uncheck Allow Indexing Service to index this disk for fast file searching.
   4. Click the OK button.
   5. In the Confirm Attributes Changes window, click the OK button.
7. Detect and repair possible errors on the hard drive using the Check Disk  utility.
8. Defragment the hard drive .
9. Because the presence of viruses, spyware, and adware can cause the operating system to perform slowly, use the currently installed anti-virus application to clean the system of malware.

   NOTE: The presence of two or more anti-virus programs may decrease computer performance.

10. Remove any recently added hardware or software.

    NOTE: For assistance with any third-party hardware or software, please contact the hardware or software manufacturer.

11. Use System Restore  to return the configuration of the computer to a time when it was performing properly.

NOTE: A full recovery of the system may be required if the above steps did not resolve the issue.