If you are stuck with a relatively old Macbook, you might be thinking about purchasing a replacement. While spending money on a new Mac is one of the options, it does not have to be. You can boost the performance of your Macbook without spending that much money.
Do not hesitate and read this article. The suggestions below should be enough to come up with a plan and use the Macbook with few hiccups, similar to how it was when you first bought the computer.
Suggestion #1 – Optimize Internet Browser
We rely on the internet for work and entertainment. But what should one do if the browser fails to deliver. Are your browser pages not loading? Or maybe the crashes and freezes regularly?
Try getting rid of temporary browser data and restart the Macbook. If the removal of the system junk from the drive and regular restarts do not help with the internet browser performance, you have to look for a solution elsewhere.
Perhaps you have installed too many extensions and add-ons? Or maybe you have forgotten to clear the browser cache? It depends, but the more different methods you try, the higher the chances of surfing the net with fewer problems.
Suggestion #2 – Scan for Potential Malware
Malware, viruses, and other cybersecurity threats pose a danger to your Macbook. And the problem can escalate to more than just poor computer performance.
Start with reliable antivirus and have it actively run in the background to detect and remove corrupted system files. Avoiding shady landing pages and using a virtual private network is also worth considering.
Taking as many measures as you can increases the odds of avoiding malware that could manifest into a big problem and slow down the Macbook’s speed.
Suggestion #3 – Declutter Desktop
A clutter-free desktop should be more common, but not every Mac owner is that keen to keep their files in another location. It is for the sake of convenience, but this convenience sacrifices performance of the computer. The system renders each icon when you switch between the desktop and other tabs.
Try to get in the habit of decluttering your desktop as soon as there are more than a few icons on it. Ideally, there should not be any icons, period, but if you are still trying to adapt to the change, do not push yourself too much.
Suggestion #4 – Free up HDD Space
Make sure that there are more than just a few gigabytes of free storage on the Macbook’s hard drive. Otherwise, you will not have a good time using your computer.
If you are struggling with freeing up the drive’s space, consider doing the following:
- remove temporary system junk, like app plugins, extensions, caches, and system backups
- transfer files to Dropbox, iCloud, memory sticks, and external hard drives
- delete unnecessary applications, old email attachments, downloads, and duplicate files
- subscribe to streaming services to consume media on the go rather than keeping large media files on the Macbook
Suggestion #5 – Close Background Apps
Your Macbook does not have an endless supply of resources. You need to launch Activity Monitor and see which processes are consuming the most CPU and memory. It is a good indicator of where you can make some changes.
There are some exceptions, of course. For example, if you are using a communication platform for work, you will not have an option to replace it because it would mean that everyone you work with would also have to start using another app.
On the other hand, if an application or two puts too much of a strain on the system, it is no surprise that the computer is not running optimally.
Suggestion #6 – Get a Cooling Pad
It is important to remove dust and dirt that accumulate inside the Macbook regularly. However, in some instances, even removing all the filth does not help with overheating and loud fan noise.
Thankfully, a cooling pad exists. The accessory is a neat addition, and it will reduce the burden of the internal Macbook fans. Having a steady supply of air that ventilates the system means better performance and fewer risks of damaging the computer’s internal hardware.
Suggestion #7 – Install Updates
Do not miss updates even if they seem insignificant. Even a quick patch can make a difference and improve the Macbook’s speed. It may be that the most recent version of the operating system was exactly what you were missing.
Suggestion #8 – Disable Visual Effects
Ask yourself if it is worth sacrificing the computer’s resources for flashy and gimmicky effects, such as a backlit keyboard or visuals for Music? Probably not.
These visual effects are nothing but a hindrance to the Macbook. Disabling them will also prolong the battery lifespan. Be more pragmatic, and do not hesitate to get rid of gimmicks that your Mac has to offer for the sake of improving the computer’s performance.