A brand-new Macbook is great and makes living and working a lot easier for those who start using it. However, Mac owners will notice that the computer slows down after a while and is not performing the way it did in the early days.
Some users begin to panic and believe that the only solution to the problem is purchasing a new Macbook. But that is not the case. There are multiple methods to speed the computer even if you had it for a few years. And keep in mind that the more of these you apply, the more effective the results you will get.
Method #1 – Update or Reinstall the OS
Reinstalling the OS on a Macbook is similar to reinstalling Windows. It gives your computer a new and fresh start. Of course, before you reinstall the OS, make sure that you have files backed up.
Another point to consider when talking about reinstalling the OS is about how a new version can be the cause behind a decrease in performance. It is possible that your Macbook will run smoother with an older OS version. If you have time, test it out. Apple has been known to make mistakes in the past and reverse them with future updates.
Method #2 – Declutter Desktop
A cluttered desktop is another common culprit behind underperforming computers. If you put all your files on the desktop because you find it to be more comfortable, do not be surprised that you can no longer do anything using the computer.
Every icon on the desktop has to be rendered when you switch between the desktop and another window. So instead of putting all the files on the desktop, organize them in folders and keep only a minimal amount of icons on the desktop.
Method #3 – Use Cleaner Software
A lot of useless files accumulate over time and the worst part about it is the fact that you cannot delete a lot of them manually. Caches, iCloud and iTunes storage, and other hidden files can take a lot of space on a hard drive. And when you lack drive space, the computer slows down noticeably.
Since manual removal of such files is a pain, why not leave the task to software? Clean My Mac X does a wonderful job of removing all the junk and makes Macbook run faster.
Method #4 – Shut off Processes in the Background
Open your activity monitor and organize the programs in the background by CPU usage. You may find that there are certain processes that should not be there in the first place.
Shut them off and you should notice that the Macbook is performing better. After all, if you are not using an app, there is no reason to have it run in the background anyway. You can always launch it again when you need to.
Method #5 – Manage Startup Items
Go to System Preferences, select Users and Groups and click on your profile. Log in and uncheck boxes from applications to prevent them from launching together with the computer. This way, you will save time it takes for everything to load and you can start using the Macbook quicker.
Method #6 – Add More Memory
Adding more RAM is a good way to improve performance. These days, you can find additional memory for a relatively cheap price because the industry continues to produce a new and improved product. And this production automatically reduces the price of older models.
Method #7 – Clean the Dirt and Dust
Sometimes, the problem can be not from a technical point of view. If you neglect to regularly clean the dust and dirt that collects over time, you will also experience performance problems from the computer.
Do a thorough cleaning if you have not had a chance to do it before. And do not be surprised to find a lot of dirt.
Also, one of the best indicators that the computer is in need of cleaning is when it starts to overheat and the fans begin to make more noise than they usually do.
Method #8 – Scan for Viruses and Malware
Viruses or malware can get in when you least expect them to and if you are not careful, it will do more harm than just slow down the performance.
Always have anti-virus software running in the background so that whenever there is a potential threat, it gets detected and deleted. Also, it would not be bad to do regular scans as well. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Method #9 – Free up Drive Space Using External Storage
Freeing up more space on a hard drive will smooth things as well. It does not mean that you should go ahead and delete the files. No, instead of deleting, make use of services like iCloud or external storage devices, like memory sticks.