The Pros and Cons of Software-Free Optimization
Improving your computer's performance can be done in a number of ways, but adding firepower by upgrading or replacing hardware components may be the right move for some.
When it comes to boosting a PC's speed, software can only take you so far. Once a machine is cleansed of viruses, defragmented (a tactic that helps put files together) and optimized, it still might not be as speedy as you'd like.
That's where hardware options come in. A number of system enhancements can help to speed up a PC. Common strategies include adding a solid-state drive (SSD) or increasing memory by adding random access memory (RAM) chips.
Here's a look at the pros and cons of going the hardware route.
Top Advantages
When it comes to adding hardware, there are three major benefits: zoom, zoom and zoom:
- If you've been struggling with a sluggish PC, getting more speed will feel like a switch from walking to flying in a jet. Everything loads faster, games don't stall and the computer starts up with a speed you didn't think possible. Once you get a taste of that level of performance, it's tough to go back.
- Software options might increase speed an incremental amount, but nothing can match the level of speed that a hardware upgrade makes possible.
- Also, hardware tends to come with a capacity increase. For example, adding a new hard drive will boost performance and also allow the computer to store more information. This memory addition will optimize performance of some applications, thanks to the added processing power.
- Better hardware may also enhance your ability to work with more processing-hungry applications. Some games, in particular, have very high processor requirements in order to render their 3–D effects. Other applications that require more oomph include video-editing suites, audio-editing programs and some system maintenance resources like antivirus scanning.
- With more processing power and faster speeds, it's easier to run multiple programs simultaneously. That means you could be playing a game and quickly switch over to a work document when the boss walks in.
Drawbacks to Consider
Although hardware fixes are compelling, they do come with challenges as well. Most notably, many computers will need to be taken to a professional for an upgrade (especially if a PC warranty is voidable if the user performs the upgrade).
Professional-level service guarantees the hardware installation is done well, but it also means the PC will be in the shop for at least a day or two. And, even with inexpensive RAM chips, you'll have to pay for labor and any repairs associated with the work.
Another drawback can be unrealistic expectations. Even with stellar hardware, there are limits to how much more speed you'll realize with a system enhancement. If you haven't explored software options as well — such as doing a thorough virus cleaning — the hardware approach may be less effective.
In general, though, enhancing a PC through new hardware can be a real boon. The extra speed means tasks can be completed faster, games load more easily and many other benefits. Are you ready to soup up your PC for the fast lane?