A computer can feel sluggish while an update is running. If it happens every day, try to pin down when the slowdown starts. Begin with whatever task usually causes the most trouble.
Try these checks
- Restart the computer. In Windows, choose Start → Power → Restart. After signing in, open only the app that usually gives you trouble. If it works normally, open your other apps one at a time and see when the problem returns.
- If only websites are slow, compare with your phone. Open the same page on a phone connected to the same Wi-Fi. If both devices are slow, check the connection first. If opening a folder on the computer is slow too, continue with the next steps.
- Check how much storage is free. Go to Settings → System → Storage. If the drive is full, check the Recycle Bin and Downloads folder before clearing anything. Copy files you want to keep to an external drive, for example, and open the copy before deleting the original.
- See what the computer is busy doing. While it is slow, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc. In Task Manager, go to Processes and select the CPU or Disk column. If an app you recognise stays near the top, close it normally and try again. Leave unfamiliar processes alone.
If the laptop also gets hot
Move the laptop from the bed or sofa to a hard surface and keep its vents clear. If the fan rattles, the laptop shuts down on its own or files stop opening normally, back up important files if you can and have the computer checked.
If you get in touch, tell us the model, what you were doing when it slowed down and whether a restart helped.
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