Computer / Laptop Slow Performance

Reset or Bypass windows password options? As I run an IT support service in herford  optimised computing , I come across this scenario and have written up how I approach this problem. 1 st need to check if you have bitlocker, if your PC is not asking for anything related to bitlocker you can skip to the next section. Section 1 BitLocker Recovery Key: What to Do If You're Locked Out BitLocker is a powerful tool built into Windows to keep your data safe through encryption. But sometimes that safety net turns into a roadblock—like when you boot into Safe Mode or make hardware changes, and Windows suddenly asks you to enter your BitLocker recovery key. Here’s what you need to know: Why You're Being Asked for a BitLocker Recovery Key When BitLocker detects unusual conditions—Safe Mode boot, BIOS changes, or even updates—it may assume your system is under threat and prompt you to verify ownership using your 48-digit recovery key . If you can't use your normal sign-in method (l...

Why Windows Recovery Features Matter—And Why Yours Might Not Be Enabled Whether you're running a PC for daily essentials or managing operations in a work environment, unexpected failures can strike without warning. Fortunately, Windows includes built-in restore features designed to help you bounce back quickly—but many users don’t even realise these tools are switched off by default. In this post, we'll explore why enabling recovery options is a smart move, especially if you're relying on expert IT support, like us at Optimised Computing. With the right settings in place, service restoration becomes faster and far more reliable. You might wonder why these safeguards aren’t activated automatically. Some argue for user choice and data privacy—but if your machine handles important tasks, backing up both your files and Windows itself is more than a precaution. It’s essential Windows System Recovery. Under the control panel > Recovery, or typing "create restore point...

Taming Background Services in Windows with ServiceEnforcer.vbs ref:  <Download Link to "ServiceEnforcer.VBS"> Ever battled with an unruly Windows service hogging system resources at the worst possible time? ServiceEnforcer.vbs offers a lightweight solution: intelligently throttle any targeted Windows service, and its children, to restore peace across your CPU cores. Purpose & Triggering Designed to be launched via Windows Task Scheduler , this VBScript takes two parameters: Service Name (e.g., "wuauserv" for Windows Update) Event ID that triggered the task This makes it ideal for responding to specific system events—such as update processes starting—without requiring constant background operation. What It Does: Once called, the script executes a systematic routine: 1. Lock File Protection To avoid race conditions from multiple triggers, it uses a .lock file: If the file already exists and is younger than 2 minutes, the script politely exi...

Windows Update Slowing down the computer. If you find that sometimes your computer is running slow, and you try to find out, and you see Windows Update is downloading or installing an update, and it's impacting you, I work in computer servicing and I commonly see complaints such as: Windows Update is slowing down my internet. Windows Update is taking all my bandwidth. Windows Update high CPU usage Note: In Windows services, the service name is "wuauserv" for Windows Update Service. Here, I've documented some steps to manage Windows updates, including lighter options through the Windows settings, as well as a more comprehensive approach to ensure that Windows updates run in the background. Windows Update: How to set internet bandwidth usage limits This option is available in both Windows 10 & 11 and has been given the name Delivery Optimisation. So head into "Settings" > "Windows Update" > "Advanced Options" > "Delivery O...

MacBook Performance & Software Issues Is your MacBook running slower than usual? Are you hearing loud fan noise or struggling with macOS updates? At Optimised Computing, we specialise in diagnosing and resolving performance and software issues for both MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models—so you can get back to working smoothly and efficiently. ________________________________________ Common MacBook Performance Problems We Fix We help customers across Herefordshire and beyond with: • Slow startup and sluggish performance • Overheating and loud fan noise • macOS update failures or errors • App crashes or freezing • Storage running low • General software training and support ________________________________________ What Causes MacBook Performance Issues? Here are some of the most common technical reasons your MacBook might be underperforming: 1. Outdated macOS or Software Running an older version of macOS can lead to compatibility issues, security vulnerabilities, and slowe...

Is it cheaper to repair or replace an apple Macbook? If your iMac, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro is acting up—whether it’s a cracked screen, battery issue, or sluggish performance—you might be wondering: Should I repair it or just buy a new one? At Optimised Computing, we help customers across Herefordshire make smart, cost-effective decisions. Here’s what you need to know. When Repairing a Mac Makes More Sense In many cases, repairing your Mac is significantly more affordable than replacing it—especially when: The Mac is less than 5–7 years old Apple devices are built to last. A battery replacement or SSD upgrade can breathe new life into your Mac for a fraction of the cost of a new one. The issue is isolated Common repairs like: Screen replacement Battery replacement Charging port repair macOS reinstall or upgrade …are often much cheaper than buying a new Mac, which can cost £1,000–£3,000+. Y...