Guest post by Justas Markus
Do not expect a Macbook to perform the same way that it does the first time you start it. A time will come when you start to notice that it takes longer for applications to launch or that the loading screen after each restart is also not as fast as it should be.
Does this mean that you need to purchase a new computer? That is an option, but there are ways you can boost Macbook performance without getting another Macbook. If you want to find out how, read on.
Idea #1 – Add New Hardware
You will need to spend money on new hardware, but it is still a much cheaper option than buying another Macbook. Moreover, you can find plenty of great deals for used parts that would still be an upgrade. Not to mention sales during holidays. So even those with a budget can significantly improve their Macbook’s performance.
The most popular additions are RAM and SSDs. The latter can be found in the most recent Macbook models already, but if you own an older Mac, then replacing your hard drive with a solid-state drive will make a difference. As for extra RAM, the more memory your Mac has, the better it will perform.
Idea #2 – Free up Drive Space
Do not end up with just a few gigabytes of storage on your drive. If you do, then using a Macbook will become quite difficult.
Available space on a hard drive or a solid-state drive can run out quickly if you are not careful. Be smarter about managing your data. Get in the habit of getting rid of system junk regularly. Remove applications you no longer need. Transfer data to clouds and external storage devices. The bottom line is that the more free storage you have, the better your Macbook will perform.
Idea #3 – Get Rid of Visual Effects
You would be better off forgetting about visual effects. Some of the examples include animations for the Dock, a backlit keyboard, and visuals for Music.
These visual effects are a hindrance to the overall Mac performance and offer nothing in return, other than consuming system resources.
Idea #4 – Scan for Malware
Check the Mac for malware and viruses. It may be that you accidentally stumbled upon a cybersecurity threat, and it infected one of your system files. Scan the system with reliable antivirus and eliminate potentially infected files.
If you want to improve the computer’s security, enable the firewall and browse the internet via a virtual private network in addition to antivirus.
Idea #5 – Clean Filth Inside the Macbook
You should remove dust and dirt that accumulates inside the Macbook. Do so regularly, because it can lead to issues worse than the computer’s performance. You risk damaging internal hardware that will be expensive to replace.
A high temperature and loud fan noises are two indications that there is too much filth inside the Mac. Some will suggest you purchase a cooling pad. While the accessory is a nice addition, it will still not solve the root of the problem.
If you are afraid of taking the Macbook apart yourself to clean the dust and dirt inside, then take it to a service store and let professionals handle the work.
Idea #6 – Manage Applications
Keep close tabs on the applications running in the background. Activity Monitor will tell you which processes are consuming the most resources. You can sort applications by CPU and memory usage to see which of them should be removed or replaced.
For instance, there are many internet browsers. If your current web browser requires a lot of memory, then you may want to consider looking for an alternative. And transferring bookmarks and browsing history to another browser should not be a problem.
Idea #7 – Declutter Desktop
Do not clutter your Macbook’s desktop. Each icon is rendered every time you switch to another tab from the desktop and vice-versa.
It might be more convenient to have your most important files available there on the desktop, but is it worth sacrificing the computer’s performance for that convenience?
You should keep your files in folders. And if you find it hard to locate the files, be smarter with naming and use Spotlight for searching.
Idea #8 – Install Updates
Make sure that your system is up to date. The most recent version of the OS provides more than just new features. Updates bring stability and performance improvements, as well as security patches. It may be that the OS has some holes and is prone to cybersecurity threats, but a hotfix usually solves the problem.
Speaking of the operating system, you may find that the best way to boost the performance is none other than reinstalling the OS. But before you commit, create a data backup because files get wiped after reinstalling the OS.
