How to optimize Pc performance

Optimizing your PC performance involves several steps. Here are some general tips that can help:

1. Update Drivers: Ensure that your device drivers, especially graphics and chipset drivers, are up to date. Manufacturers often release updates to improve compatibility and performance. This is absolutely critical when setting up your new PC and for maintaining optimal performance throughout the life of your PC.
2. Remove Unnecessary Programs: Uninstall unused or unnecessary programs. This frees up disk space and reduces the load on your system. Admittedly, it can be easy to get attached to certain programs, but like hoarding in your household, the clutter eventually begins to negatively impact your space and overall happiness.
3. Disk Cleanup: Regularly perform disk cleanup to delete temporary files and unnecessary system files. This can be done using the built-in Disk Cleanup tool on Windows. This is useful every year or so, to maintain optimal performance of your PC.
4. Manage Startup Programs: Disable unnecessary startup programs. This can be done through the Task Manager on Windows or the Login Items section on macOS. A number of programs will insist on opening at startup. This is because every business values your eyes and would like as much of your attention as possible. As your adding new programs it's important to consider what programs genuinely need to open at startup and which programs can wait until you're ready to use them.
5. Upgrade Hardware: Consider upgrading your hardware components, such as adding more RAM or upgrading to a faster solid-state drive (SSD). This can significantly improve overall performance. As hardware improves you should consider making upgrades. All components of PCs at Kansas City PC builds can be upgraded. While we have a number of DDR4 options remaining, we will eventually retire them to benefit from the emergence of DDR5. However DDR4 currently offers the best price to performance and should be more than adequate to manage workloads for years to come. 
6. Check for Malware: Run a full system scan for malware and viruses. Malicious software can significantly impact your PC's performance.
7. Adjust Power Settings: On laptops, you can optimize performance by adjusting power settings. Set it to high performance when needed and power saver when performance is not critical.
8. Optimize Visual Effects: On Windows, you can adjust visual effects for better performance. Go to "System Properties" > "Advanced system settings" > "Settings" under the Performance section. One of the most important things to do when receiving a new PC is to ensure that system performance matches your setup.  Microsoft Windows in particular advises recommended settings that are general and not necessarily consistent with the performance your PC is capable of or built for. Make sure that your computer visually performs in accordance with the system and equipment you paid for!
9. Update Operating System: Keep your operating system updated with the latest patches and updates. This ensures that your system is secure and running efficiently.
10. Use a Good Antivirus Program: Install a reliable antivirus program to protect your system from malware and other security threats. This is arguably less important in 2024. I intend to post on the value of antivirus at a latter date.
11. Manage Browser Extensions: If you use web browsers, limit the number of extensions or plugins. Some can consume a significant amount of system resources.
12. Defragment Hard Drive (if not using an SSD): If you have a traditional hard drive, consider defragmenting it. SSDs don't require defragmentation. As SSDs are becoming price competitive with Hard Drives the value of Hard Drives may decline over time. However, they still offer cheap storage for programs that aren't used often and so maintaining your hard drive will be an additional tool for some.

Remember that the effectiveness of these tips can vary depending on your specific hardware and software configuration. It's a good idea to monitor your PC's performance regularly and make adjustments as needed.