After a certain time period of use almost all of us face one or the other problems with our computer systems such as the slow down problem, it might be related to hardware or software,but we certainly get confused in such situations thinking that, is it the right time to reinstall/reformat the windows or cant we do something else to avert the situation? As for some of us it involves a lot of hassle.
Formatting/Reinstalling the windows will certainly bring a bit of relief to your operating system as it would remove the junk files, remains of unused old background programs and any malware or virus functions running ( those might be using your PC resources ) but still you have to asses how much are you in requirement of a reinstallation.
So let us peep into some of the facts that can help you out in making the proper decision.
Operating System in use – The OS in use by your PC play a very important role in the functioning of the computer. An all time favorite OS till now has been windows XP and for networking windows 2000 because they are very well supported by Microsoft with latest file and security updates that doesn’t make the computer vulnerable to any outside attack or malfunctioning.
How much time does you system require to reboot – You just need to take in notice how much time is been taken by your computer to load the programs and the system tray icons that is approximately how much time the CPU is taking to boot the system the ideal time is between 2 to 10 seconds still 60 seconds can also be considered if you have too many programs loaded.
Note: Try to keep minimum number of programs in the system tray for fast booting results.
Running the games – If you are a gamer you can take in account that, are you able to play your favorite games as easily as you used to play earlier that means check out if your computer or laptop components are not getting overheated and the CPU is not exceeding the supposed normal usage ranging from 2% to 20% (It can be a bit higher depending on your hardware quality). There are various utilities also available over the web to keep in check on these functions but you can also check the CPU usage by hitting Alt-Ctrl-Del and then go to the Performance tab to check the CPU usage (Before checking the usage make sure to close all the programs and take an average of the fluctuating CPU reading).
Memory usage –If you don’t have too much of RAM in your computer then it would defiantly take a lot of your memory but if you have got enough RAM (Random Access Memory) then it would comparatively provide you with more free memory available for usage. In a windows 7 operating system you can check your memory usage by opening the Task Manager with Alt-Ctrl-Del command and check under the Performance tab Physical Memory usage given in percentage over the right bottom side of the window. And those using the Windows XP OS can take out the rough percentage usage idea by the formula Total – Available = Physical memory/Total * 100 (system cache is also considered as memory in use that can be regained by deleting junk page files). Now if your memory usage is around 20% to 40% then things are right for you but when that goes above you have to take a look into the fact that your background junk is not eating your RAM memory.
SVChost.exe files running – It’s a windows system file that is used to run and load services and several SVChost.exe can run at a same time grouping services. This file is found in C:\Windows\System32 folder, if found anywhere else that could be due to virus, malware or worm. In the Task Manager under Processes tab you can see about 3 to 4 SVChost.exe files running but if any one of them is consuming 90% to 100% then it could be because of virus. Now to properly identify such files you can download Microsoft tool Process Explorer which will help you to find such files and the applications running them, thus you can easily crack down on them and kill the culprit. Sometimes the problem can be rectified by simply disabling the service by going to Start – Control Panel - Administrative Tools – Services then right click on any application that you want to switch off and go to Properties, from the appeared window under Startup Type select Disable
Firewall and Antivirus –We all browse the net but if you are the one who surf for some objectionable materials or pirated software regularly from a lot of unidentified websites then you could risk your computers health for this, as such websites when visited, place trackers on your system that could take your valuable CPU usage memory. Another point that can be taken in is that even if you are using a router, still a firewall is must and an antivirus with live protection to keep your computer network free of any virus or malware. If you have not set up with this, you could be at a risk anytime. Third point to be noted is that always make it mandatory to scan any unknown new applications and emails after downloading it, as it might contain virus. Besides this it is recommended to make a schedule task for antivirus scan and updates.
Defragmentation and cleanup – Your system is running slower than what it usually used to then you can also take in consideration some other maintenance measures such as disk defragmentation and cleanups There are some utility tools available over the web that can fix registry, remove malware and junk files By the way if this too doesn’t work for you and speed up the PC then you can consider for formatting.
Error messages – Certain program(s) are giving error messages at the time of starting and any rectifying measure such as updating the software or reinstalling it does not solve he problem then you have to consider for windows reinstallation.
Restore Point - You can use this function from the system tools if possible to restore the system.
Unable to open desktop – Unable to open your desktop when you boot your PC, relax open the windows in Safe Mode and try to reinstall windows with an original CD and this might replace some configuration files that will result in solving the snag.
At some points of operating your OS it is unavoidable to reinstalling/formatting the system
- Installing a new hard disk.
- Giving away your hard disk - before doing this you must completely wipe out your personal data from the drive and for this you can also use disk-shredder software and then reinstall the OS.
- Running your CPU at a speed more than set by the factory settings can create havoc to the OS raising temperature and voltage and this needs to be corrected by reinstallation.
As a part of maintenance program you can format/reinstall the system after running the PC for more than 2 years.
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