If you are fed up with your underperforming Macbook, taking a proactive approach is one of the best strategies. Yes, there is the option of buying a new computer, but hardly anyone can afford to buy a new Mac every time their current device is experiencing problems.
People who do not have that much experience with computers are bound to fall short and not provide the best care in the world. Thus, looking to change the situation and creating a solid maintenance routine is a good piece of advice.
Follow the steps below, and you should be able to create a plan that will keep your Mac in the top shop, or refurbish it so that the computer starts to perform again.
Step #1 – Free up System Resources
Too many applications in the background can cause quite a few problems. You need to look at the Activity Monitor and determine which processes are consuming the most resources, such as GPU and memory.
It would be more efficient to shut down those apps that are active, but you are not using them at the time. And after you look at the list thoroughly, you should be able to find some applications that can be replaced for ones that are consuming fewer resources.
Step #2 – Have Enough Drive Space
Having a Mac with an SSD means that you will not have that much storage space available in the first place. Sometimes, it can be almost impossible to fit everything you want on the computer.
Thankfully, there are a few ways around this issue. For starters, you need to pay closer attention to all the junk that accumulates over time. Old downloads, applications, email attachments, system backups, extensions, or language pack files can be removed.
Using streaming services would also mean not having to keep large media files on the Mac. Finally, you can transfer some data to iCloud or Dropbox. Not to mention external storage devices, like USB flash sticks.
Step #3 – Disable Visual Effects
Do not hesitate and disable any usual effects that are active. They are nothing but a hindrance that could seem like a nice addition on the surface but provide nothing of value. Resources and the battery life will be in a much better condition once you get rid of visual effects.
Step #4 – Scan for Potential Viruses
There is always a possibility that viruses and malware are the main causes of poor computer performance.
If you do not have a reliable antivirus, get one now. Make sure that it is monitoring the system all the time and removing any threats that it finds. Also, be more careful with what links you click on. If something appears to be shady, discard it. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Step #5 – Declutter Desktop
Do not end up with a desktop that has no more room left due to all the icons. It might seem like a convenience when you have the most important files accessible on the desktop, but what about the performance of your Macbook?
Every single icon is rendered when you are switching between the desktop and other tabs. It is a big hindrance to the computer. You need to relocate those files and have a clutter-free desktop. And in case you struggle to find the files you need right away, remember that there is a search function that lets you find stuff.
Step #6 – Prevent Memory Leaks
Memory leaks are a phenomenon that occurs when certain applications start to distribute memory wrongly due to being in use for too long. The simplest solution to the problem is restarting the computer.
Regular restarts, such as once every few hours, ought to be more than enough. And if you are fed up of waiting for random applications to load after each restart, remember that there is an option to trim down the startup item list.
Step #7 – Install System Updates
Make sure that you prioritize system updates. Install them whenever there is a new version out. Stability, security, and overall performance improvements will ensure that you are not missing out on something crucial. The Macbook will run more optimally if you are using the most recent OS version.
Step #8 – Remove Filth From the Inside
Dust and dirt inside the computer could damage the internal hardware. Loud noise and overheating are two signs that too much filth has accumulated. Remove it yourself or take the Mac to a service store and let the professionals do the job. The most important thing is to make sure that you get rid of all that dust on a regular basis.
Step #9 – Add New Hardware
Adding new hardware is always worth it if you have the budget for it. These days, RAM is relatively cheap. Moreover, if you are still using a hard drive, it would be a good time to switch to an SSD.