How to Free Up Space and Speed Up an Old Laptop
An older laptop that has become slow is often not broken. A few simple steps can free up space and make it feel quicker, without spending a cent.
This guide walks through the safe, easy fixes first, in plain English.
Quick answer
Restart the laptop, close programmes you are not using, delete files you no longer need, empty the Recycle Bin, and remove programmes you never open. Make sure Windows is up to date. If it is still slow, backing up and asking for help is the next step.
Quick wins first
- Restart the laptop, which clears out small problems
- Close programmes and browser tabs you are not using
- Empty the Recycle Bin
- Run Windows updates, then restart
Free up storage space
- Delete old downloads and files you no longer need
- Use Storage settings in Windows to see what is taking up space
- Move photos to OneDrive or an external drive, then remove the copies
- Uninstall programmes you never use from Settings, Apps
Before deleting or moving photos, make sure they are backed up. Our guide on backing up explains the idea, and the same principle applies on a laptop using OneDrive or an external drive.
Help it run faster
- Reduce the number of programmes that open at startup
- Keep Windows and the web browser updated
- Restart once a week rather than leaving it on for weeks
- Make sure there is some free storage space, which helps speed
When it is time for help or a new laptop
If the laptop is still slow after all this, it may be very old or need a part replaced. A similar slowdown can happen on phones and tablets too, see what to do when a device is slow. If it is beyond help, our best laptops guide can help you choose a replacement.
FAQ: Speeding up an old laptop
Why has my laptop become slow?
Usually it is a full drive, too many programmes running, or updates waiting. The steps above fix most cases.
Will deleting files break anything?
Not if you stick to your own downloads, old documents and the Recycle Bin. Back up photos before removing them.
Do I need a cleanup programme?
No. The tools built into Windows are enough, and paid cleanup apps can cause more harm than good.
How much free space should I keep?
A laptop runs better with some space free. If the drive is nearly full, move photos off it.
What if it is still slow?
It may be very old or need a part replaced. Ask for help, or consider a budget replacement.
Before you finish
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