Slow Laptop - what have I not tried?

Rip_Uk

Active Member
A laptop I have had to look at is slow and locks up constantly for up to 2-3 mins each time.

Initially, I thought this was a software problem and as there were not many files I restored the laptop back to factory settings to resolve the problem.

As you are probably thinking, it did not resolve my problem which got me thinking I may have a hardware problem on my hands.

I have error checked the hard drive using the built in scandisk and SpinRite.
I have checked the RAM using Memtest 86 Plus
I have checked the drivers although this should not be a problem because it is a fresh factory restore.
I have checked the temperatures and it is not overheating.

There is however a problem with the Windows Update utility. The updates will constantly fail to install and when the laptop is shut down the updates will attempt to install again.. and then fail again. They also fail on start up. I have tried installing them in safe mode and from a clean boot but still they fail.

I have looked at various threads and they say to install the updates one by one but they fail if I do them on their own. I also tried stopping and starting the Windows Update service but no luck.

Is this a CPU or GPU problem?
 

wbt50

New Member
Firstly I'd completely format your hard drive and re-install Windows on to a completely blank hard drive.

If Windows is constantly failing to install updates my guess would be an issue with the OS.
 

Rip_Uk

Active Member
But reverting to factory settings would format the partition and re-install Windows anyway, so I would have a fresh start from a software point of view.
 

johnb35

Administrator
Staff member
I would first verify the hard drive isn't failing on you. Then run a memtest on your installed memory.
 

Rip_Uk

Active Member
I would first verify the hard drive isn't failing on you. Then run a memtest on your installed memory.

I have error checked the hard drive using the built in scandisk and SpinRite.
I have checked the RAM using Memtest 86 Plus.

I have made sure the HDD and RAM are correctly seated in the MOBO.

I am going to try another factory reset later on. Will update..
 

voyagerfan99

Master of Turning Things Off and Back On Again
Staff member
Use the HDD manufacturer utility. SpinRite isn't necessarily the best.
 
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