A new Macbook is not going to last forever. There will come a time when it starts to underperform. When that happens, a number of people start to wonder whether buying a replacement is the best option.
Well, spending money on a new computer is possible, but not everyone can afford that. Instead, looking for solutions that will improve performance is the way to go. Here are some tips to help you out if you are not certain where to start.
Tip #1 – Clean Dust and Dirt
Removing the filth inside the computer is a good way to start. This particular problem can get out of hand and damage the internal hardware.
Dust and dirt need to be removed regularly. If you notice a loud noise coming from the fans, or there is a rise in temperature, it is more than likely that the filth inside is at fault.
Some will say that buying a cooling pad will solve the issue. While the accessory is a great addition, you should not rely on it entirely and turn cleaning dust and dirt into a habit.
Tip #2 – Scan for Malware
A Macbook will not be in good shape if it is filled with viruses and malware. The situation can reach a point where it is no longer possible even to use the computer.
You need to install a reliable anti-malware tool and have it actively run in the background. Detecting and deleting any potential threats will give you peace of mind. Of course, there are other ways to deal with cybersecurity. MacPaw has a great article on how to remove malware from mac using means other than anti-virus.
It would also help if you took things more seriously when creating passwords. Avoiding shady websites and opening unknown files will prevent the issue even more.
Tip #3 – Look at Activity Monitor
Sort computer applications in the Activity Monitor to find out which of them are consuming the most resources. There will be some you cannot remove or change because they are built-in and have to run all the time.
On the other hand, you should still be able to locate some apps that are only consuming precious computer resources without offering anything of value in return.
Tip #4 – Optimize Web Browser
An internet browser can become the biggest issue. If you are not careful and add too many extensions, do not be surprised to experience stuttering when surfing the internet.
Sure, there are some people who are concerned about their privacy and get ad blockers, a VPN, and other add-ons that might help. But if a browser is overburdened with extensions, you will not be able to use it in the first place.
Keep the number of add-ons and extensions to a minimum. Also, do not have multiple tabs open when it is not necessary as even idle browser tabs consume resources. Finally, clear caches regularly.
Tip #5 – Free up Disk Space
Lack of disk space can drive some users angry. Macbooks do not have big hard drives, and it becomes a bother trying to fit everything on the computer. You need to adjust, especially if you have switched from using a PC.
Things will be easier if you remove old applications and junk files regularly. Transferring data to Dropbox and iCloud also helps. Not to mention external storage devices.
Tip #6 – Declutter Desktop
Make sure that there are no icons on the desktop. When rendered, each icon consumes resources, and it happens a lot when you switch back and forth between the desktop and other windows.
There is an argument to be made about how it is more convenient having most of the data available on the desktop. But there is a great search function, and finding files should not be an issue. Therefore, keep your desktop clutter-free.
Tip #7 – Manage Startup Applications
Trimming the list of Login Items will help you save time when you restart the computer. Regular restarts help with memory leak prevention and give the computer a fresh start, making it run faster after a restart.
Tip #8 – Update the System
System updates are great when it comes to improving the overall performance and introduce stability as well as security patches. So whenever there is a new update for the OS, be sure to install it as soon as you can.
Tip #9 – Reinstall the OS
Some would argue that reinstalling the OS should only be the last resort. In other words, if you feel like nothing else is working in your favor, you will have to reinstall the OS. But be sure to back up the data as it gets wiped out after you are finished with the reinstallation.
