Tune-UP

Similar to 8-tracks and classic cars, your home computing experience may also need to be tuned. Below are a few high-level items to review, research and implement based on your skill set, mindset and budget. Perhaps just one will have your ride running on all cylinders again and feeling alive. 

Router/Modem Combo Unit (Gateway):

Review placement - centralized at correct height and unobstructed

Review settings - connected devices, Wi-Fi bands used, Wi-Fi channels used, Wi-Fi signal strength and Wi-Fi speed

Ensure supports internet service plan

Restart on a schedule

PC:

Review BIOS settings

Check for Windows updates

Run Windows Disc Cleanup utility

Run Windows Defragment and Optimize Drives

Review Windows Task Scheduler for processes that run in background - disable those not needed

Review Windows Task Manager for Startup apps - disable those not needed

Review Windows Task Manager for Performance - review CPU utilization and Memory usage,  and determine if RAM is enough for the use case

Review RAM specs closely and be sure speeds match if using multiple sticks

Empty Windows download folder and recycle bin

Uninstall unused apps

Clean up hard drive of unnecessary large and duplicate files

Backup entire hard drive to an external hard drive on a schedule - repair an 8-track, optimize and clean phone or anything that radiates a little sunshine through the spillways of your soul while backup is running (inspired by Ghost)

Ensure hardware supports internet service plan

Shut down when not in use

Browser:

Delete browsing data

Delete unused extensions

Export and save bookmarks and passwords to pc on a schedule

Run Ookla Speedtest app downloaded  to pc to check internet speed

Tune-Up Apps:

Use Microsoft, PC manufacturer and third party apps/tools - some examples include Microsoft PC Health Check, Microsoft PC Manager, Windows God mode, Dell SupportAssist and jv16 PowerTools

Miscellaneous:

Use correct ethernet cable - appropriate for internet speed,  as short a distance as possible, review pros and cons of flat ones, and use ethernet cables rather than Wi-Fi where practical

Consider a wired keyboard and wired mouse  

Consider a monitor and docking station

Review work area proximity to router/modem and printer; lighting, seating and sound level

Turn off unneeded Wi-Fi mobile devices and Wi-Fi extender/mesh systems  

Consider a newer laptop if its over 8 years old, has dated hardware, does not support the latest operating system, has slow apps or battery issues