My Laptop cannot do anything and is slow

My Laptop cannot do X, needs more memory, is slow

My Laptop cannot do X, needs more memory, is slow...

If this sounds like your laptop, it might be struggling to keep up with the tasks you're trying to perform.

Here’s what could be happening and how you can address it:

Limited Capability:
If your laptop is struggling with a specific task (like gaming, video editing, or running certain applications), it could be due to limited processing power, insufficient RAM, or outdated hardware.
Solution:
Check the system requirements for the task you're trying to do. If your laptop doesn’t meet them, upgrading components (like RAM or storage) or considering a new laptop might be the solution.

Needs More Memory (RAM):
When your laptop runs out of memory (RAM), it has to rely on slower hard drive space to process tasks, which can make it sluggish.
Solution:
Upgrade your RAM: If your laptop allows, upgrading RAM can significantly improve its speed, especially if you multitask or use memory-heavy apps.

Laptop is Slow:
A slow laptop can be caused by various factors such as outdated software, too many background processes, low storage, or aging hardware.

Solutions:
  1. Clear out unused programs: Uninstall any software you no longer use.
  2. Free up storage space: Delete unnecessary files, clear cache, or move files to an external drive or cloud.
  3. Upgrade to an SSD: If your laptop uses a traditional hard drive (HDD), upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) can drastically improve boot and load times.
  4. Check for software updates: Keeping your operating system and applications updated ensures optimal performance.
  5. Perform a clean-up: Use built-in tools or third-party software to remove junk files, optimise your system, and speed up your laptop.
If your laptop’s hardware is quite old or can’t be upgraded, it might be time to consider investing in a new one with better specifications.






    • Related Articles

    • How do I get started with my DSA awarded Laptop, software and Equipment.

      In general, if provided with a standard entry-level laptop and printer, the first thing to do is to understand what the equipment can and cannot do Most passwords, if present, will usually be "12345678" or "1234", though if not, it can be worth ...

    • How do the warranty and "insurance" work on my DSA supplied laptop or item?

      Most Laptops supplied by a DSA supplier will DSA "break" the warranty checkers on most websites. In most instances, most students should/will have three "Warranties". As long as they are listed on your order/ship note etc. Manufacturer Warranty. The ...

    • Why would I need to upgrade my DSA awarded Laptop?

      Study Tech and Tech Support would recommend upgrading from any, "entry level" or standard DSA laptop in any instance, purely as the base model laptops funded by DSA will be adequate for most tasks, though they may do those tasks slower than you may ...

    • My Laptop battery does not last long enough to record my lectures?

      Laptops will generally have a battery that lasts a few hours, under a light load. A light load is one or two browser tabs/windows and one light app such as Word or Teams. ANY recording app, making notes/incorporating AI in some way or otherwise is a ...

    • Why you cant use a power bank to charge your laptop

      Why Power Banks Typically Can't, or should not be used to Charge Laptops Power banks are usually designed to charge smaller, peripheral devices such as smartphones, headphones, and microphones. These devices normally require a relatively low power ...