To figure out why your computer is running slowly, you need to use some built-in tools along with a few third-party apps. Start with Task Manager on Windows or Activity Monitor on Mac. They show you how much CPU, memory, disk, and network each app is using, which is great for spotting any programs that are using too many resources.
On Windows, Resource Monitor gives you more details about what's happening with your processes, like disk and network activity. This can help you find if there are hardware issues or programs that are acting up. Performance Monitor is another useful tool on Windows that lets you track performance over time with custom data.
For a quick cleanup, third-party tools like CCleaner can remove temporary files, fix registry problems, and help with startup settings. If you want more control, the Sysinternals Suite—especially Process Explorer and Autoruns—can help you dig deeper into your system and find what's slowing things down.
On Mac, CleanMyMac and OnyX are great for system cleanup and diagnostics. Both platforms can also benefit from Malwarebytes to check for malware or adware that can cause slowdowns. To keep an eye on the health of your SSD, you can use CrystalDiskInfo for Windows or DriveDx for Mac.
For business or development needs, tools like New Relic, Datadog, and SolarWinds can monitor applications and system performance across networks. By using these tools together, you can quickly spot what’s causing the slowdowns and tackle those issues.
