Even the most powerful of computers can slow down overtime, especially when they are being worn more and more. Much like a car, a computer can slow down and require replacement. However, the same way as the car, there are some steps that will minimize that sluggishness you're trying to avoid in the first place.

From choosing to reduce Chrome memory usage, to ensuring that you actually shut your computer down when you are done. There are things that you can do to prevent your computer from slowing down entirely. Below, I've put together a few things that you can start off with.

1. Start by minimizing your programs and extensions. It's a mistake that most people make as they see an excellent extension or a program and they download it to their computer straight away. The problem is, when you overload your computer in that way, you'll find that it slows down. This happens because it's trying to keep up with all of that memory. As much as possible, try to run things from USB or external hard drives. Avoid downloading them onto your computer. You'll find there is a marked difference in your computer speed.
2. Avoid auto starting programs. With auto start, so many programs are keen to start up at the same time when you load up your windows, but the best thing that you can do is to make sure that this doesn't happen. To check what's starting alongside the OS, go to the Startup tab of the Task Manager on Windows or on the User Groups tab under System Preferences on a Mac. Auto start works well just for some applications. If you can keep this list down to a minimum, your computer won't be so slow.
3. Social Security fast. Another common cause of a system slowdown are unwanted malware apps all over the place on your system. These don't have to be full blown viruses, but browser extensions that gather advertising data and dodgy utilities that are bundled with genuinely useful software. This feeds back to the point that I made earlier on about being selective about what you install. Unwanted malware and adware can install itself, so running checks regularly is important
4. Make sure that you update everything regularly. Updating software is such a chore, especially when you don't want your computer to pause for any reason. But it is a must if you want to keep up to date with everything on your computer. With the modern versions of Windows, Mac and all the applications that run on them, keeping your software updated is crucial to avoid slowdowns, crashes and security issues.

No one wants to sit down at their computer, switch it on, and find that it won't load up properly. However, when you implement all of these tips, you'll find that you won't have to worry about that slowdown or those crashing incidents anymore.