by Your computer is slow, but you’re not even doing much. Here are five processes you can end right now for a faster and smoother experience. You can thank me later.
Sometimes you need to go the extra mile to speed up your computer, especially if it’s older. These tricks take about 60 seconds each.
Follow these steps and you’ll clean up some junk, but what about when you install new games, apps, or other software?
Developers have a sneaky way of getting you to install extra stuff you don’t need but to make them money. They will disclose it in the terms and conditions of the program, but no one reads it. I’ll show you how to catch them in the act.
Tricks to make money from you
Developers often include additional software or files with their applications or software installation packages. Some of these add-ons include:
- Adware: This software displays unwanted advertisements on your device, usually pop-ups or banners.
- Toolbars: Toolbars are browser add-ons that often come with software. They usually add extra features or shortcuts to your browser, but they can also slow down your browser or collect your data.
- Browser Extensions: These are like toolbars, but are more integrated into the browser and can provide additional functionality.
- Trialware: Some software packages may include a trial version of another software program in hopes that you will eventually purchase the full version.
- Bloatware: This software is not necessary to use the program, but is included anyway, often to provide additional functionality that you probably don’t need.
- Tracking software: Some software may include tracking software that collects data about your behavior, such as browsing history, search queries, or other personal information.
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MAINE, USA – APRIL 12: Molly White, 28, a software engineer and self-proclaimed crypto critic, sits for a portrait in Maine while on a sabbatical on Tuesday, April 12, 2022. White, a longtime Wikipedia editor, created a website and Twitter account, Web3 Is Going Great, which chronicles the myriad scams, irregularities, abuses, mistakes and failures amid the current crypto boom, and Web3, which serves as a stream of cautionary accounts and perspectives for people interested in these technologies. (Tristan Spinski for The Washington Post via Getty Images)
When installing software, you may see different installation options, such as express, recommended, and custom installation. The latter may be labeled advanced installation for advanced users.
Don’t take the express lane
Since many people don’t consider themselves “advanced” users, they will choose the simple or recommended option. Makes sense. Let the program do all the work, right?
Not so fast. Express installations often include some or all of the items listed above.
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Some programs change your default settings, browser, home page, or search engine. You won’t have the option to say no thanks to the quick or default install.
Finally, express installations can allow you to collect data, sync your contacts, or involve some other privacy violation. Yes. While you may be able to change these settings later, it is best to discard them during the installation phase.
Do this the next time you install software
Always use the custom or advanced option. In addition to selecting a destination folder or drive, you may have the option to uncheck the boxes for optional software and settings you don’t want or need.
Read everything carefully and check the boxes as needed. Don’t worry about messing anything up — the installer will include the necessary files to run the program no matter what you choose. It just won’t have the extras you don’t need or want.
Do you have a greater need for speed? Here’s a tip for cleaning your PC or Mac.
Look for mobile apps
For smaller, simpler apps, you may have the option to download a portable version. This type of application does not use an installer. All the files needed to run the mobile app are in a single folder, which you can place anywhere on your system.
Instead of installing a portable app, you typically download it as a ZIP file, extract it to a folder, and run the executable for the app. It is generally safe to download if you trust the source.
The Instagram app appears on the iPhone’s home screen. (CyberGuy.com)
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