performance - How do I troubleshoot a Windows freeze or slowness?

A machine is described as being "really slow" or "freezing". How can I troubleshoot/resolve this issue? What should be the first steps to take?

Answer

Assuming you are using a Windows OS...

Things to check:

1. PC has 10% at least of free disk space


2. PC has at least 1 GB of RAM for Windows XP and 2 GB for Windows Vista


3. If there are any hanging programs or drivers.


4. Corrupt system files. If that is so, run sfc /scannow in cmd and let it replace any corrupt system files. It may ask for your Windows CD. Or, if it is seriously damaged then perform a Windows XP repair install or Windows Vista repair install


5. A badly corrupted file system. This is from experience rather than knowledge.
   Run chkdsk /r in the command prompt.


6. Due to the way Windows handles files, it will in inevitably get slow over time. Your MFT structure gets bigger and bigger over time. The only cure is a fresh install.


7. Malware. Download and run HijackThis, and then post the log here. It'll give us a decent idea of what's running and what could be hogging all your memory/CPU.