Should we replace slow computers or upgrade them?

It depends on the age and specifications. Machines under 3 years old can often be upgraded with faster storage and more memory for 20-30% of replacement cost. Older machines are usually more cost-effective to replace.

Why did our computers get slow gradually?

Software demands increase over time. Windows updates, browser updates, and application bloat all consume more resources. A machine that was fine in 2020 may struggle with 2024 software.

Can you fix slow computers remotely?

Often yes - software optimisation, cleanup, and configuration can be done remotely. Hardware issues obviously require hands-on work.

How long does a proper cleanup take?

Typically 1-2 hours per machine for thorough optimisation. We can do this out of hours to avoid disrupting your team.

What should we budget for new computers?

Proper business-grade laptops start around £600-800 for basic use, £900-1200 for power users. We recommend Dell for reliability and support.

Why Are Your Business Computers So Slow?

Nothing frustrates staff more than waiting for their computer to respond. Slow machines waste time, damage productivity, and signal deeper IT problems. Here's why it happens and what you can do about it.

Book a Free IT Health Check Call 01584 517 234

Does This Sound Familiar?

Common signs you're experiencing this issue

Computers take several minutes to boot up
Applications freeze or hang regularly
Browser tabs crash frequently
Files take ages to open from the server
Staff complaining daily about their machines

What's Causing This?

Understanding the root causes helps find the right solution

Aging Hardware

Business computers older than 4-5 years often lack the memory and fast storage needed for modern software.

Bloated Software

Years of installed programs, browser extensions, and startup items accumulate and slow everything down.

Malware & PUPs

Potentially Unwanted Programs and hidden malware consume resources without you knowing.

Network Problems

A slow or congested network makes everything feel sluggish, especially cloud applications.

Inadequate Monitoring

Without proactive management, issues accumulate until machines become unusable.

How We Can Help

Practical solutions to resolve your issues

Hardware Assessment

We audit your machines and recommend upgrades or replacements where cost-effective.

System Optimisation

Clean up bloatware, optimise startup, ensure proper configuration for your workload.

Proactive Monitoring

Our RMM tools catch problems before they slow you down. Automated maintenance keeps things running.

Network Upgrade

Proper switches, managed WiFi, and optimised configuration for modern business demands.

Slow computers are rarely just one problem - they're usually symptoms of accumulated neglect. A machine that was fast when installed five years ago is now struggling with modern software, Windows updates, and accumulated programs.

The solution isn't always new hardware. Often, proper maintenance, cleanup, and configuration can restore acceptable performance. But sometimes, replacement is the most cost-effective answer - especially when you factor in lost productivity.

Our IT Health Check identifies exactly what's causing your slowdowns and recommends the most cost-effective solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this issue

Ready to Fix This?

Let's get your IT working properly

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Trusted By Local Heroes

Don't just take our word for it.

"Well all I can say is a big shout out to Sam James BSc at Fresh Tech for literally swooping into rescue🦸‍♂️ my computer from being hacked within seconds. Thank goodness I outsource to companies who know what they are doing."

Carole Aveson

CAA Administration Services