Why is my PC running slow even though I recently upgraded the RAM?

[tonystark2]

Even after upgrading the RAM, my PC still feels slow and unresponsive. Programs take longer than expected to open, and multitasking doesn’t seem smoother at all. I’ve already checked for basic issues like malware and storage space, but the performance drop continues. I’m wondering if there are hidden background processes, startup apps, or system settings causing the slowdown. Also, I recently came across WhatsApp plus and similar tools—could such installations or APK-related files impact system performance in any way? Any guidance on diagnosing and fixing this issue would be really helpful.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @tonystark2,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

You’ve done the right first steps by upgrading RAM and checking for malware, and storage space. If the PC still feels sluggish, there are deeper factors we can look into. Let’s break this down:

Why Performance Might Still Be Slow

1. Background Processes & Startup Apps
   • Too many apps running at startup can hog resources.
   • Heavy background services (cloud sync, update agents, third-party utilities) can slow things down.
      
2. System Settings
   • Windows visual effects, indexing, and power settings can impact responsiveness.
   • Outdated drivers or firmware can bottleneck performance.
      
3. Disk Health
   • If you’re on HDD instead of SSD, even with more RAM, performance will still lag.
   • Fragmentation or failing sectors can cause delays.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis & Fix

1. Check Startup Apps

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Startup tab.
• Disable unnecessary apps (status: Enabled → Right-click → Disable).
   

2. Scan for Resource Hogs

• In Task Manager, check Processes for apps using high CPU, RAM, or Disk.
• Sort by usage and note any unusual apps.
   

3. Optimize Windows Settings

• Turn off visual effects: 
  • Search Performance Options → Select Adjust for best performance.
• Set Power Plan to High Performance: 
  • Control Panel → Power Options → High Performance.
     

4. Update Drivers & BIOS

• Use HP Support Assistant or Device Manager to update: 
  • Chipset, Graphics, Storage drivers.
• Check the HP site for BIOS updates.
   

5. Run HP Hardware Diagnostics

• Restart → Press Esc repeatedly → F2 → Run System Tests (Memory, Storage).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat

[NonSequitur777]

@tonystark2,

Welcome to our HP Community forum!

I would very much recommend trying out the performance/optimization steps as shown in this very helpful YouTube instructional video: 🔧 How to Optimize Windows 10 For GAMING & Performance in 2019 The Ultimate Updated GUIDE. It doesn't matter if your PC runs on Windows 11, same steps apply.

the only edit I would point to is found at timestamp 17:12, where Panjno says to enter seven f's, but that should be eight f's, like so: ffffffff

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777