It is common to upgrade RAM/memory first when dealing with a slow computer, but BONGANI SITHOLE reveals the real secret to improving performance.

You can check your laptop's disk type by opening the task manager and clicking the Performance tab. Your computer's performance will be detailed here. If you have 100% disk usage, it is time to replace the disk with an SSD.

Your laptop usually slows down because the hard drive has a slow access time, which creates a backlog of tasks.

Hard drive fragmentation can also affect access times  It takes more time for the needle on the hard drive to go back and forth fetching files with time, reducing access times even further.

An SSD increases your laptop's speed because it uses electrical circuits and does not have moving parts. This reduces startup lag as well as lag when opening apps or performing large tasks.

Fragmentation does not affect SSDs either. Replace the hard drive with an SSD from any computer repair store, and use the hard drive as external storage.

Back up all your data from your hard drive to another storage location either flash drives or the cloud before beginning any transfers. The blank SSD must then be reinstalled with Windows.

For a disassembly guide on YouTube or your laptop's manual, if you decide to replace it yourself.

You should work on wood or tiles rather than carpeted surfaces, as carpets can create static electricity that can permanently damage your hard drive.

Put your old hard drive into a USB enclosure so that it can still be used as external storage. It's best to let a technician replace your laptop if you're not comfortable opening it.