If your MacBook is relatively old, you might have noticed that it is not performing as great as it did early. While Macs are quite reliable, they are no different from other computers. Sooner or later, you will run into performance issues, and the time will come faster if you neglect to take proper care of your laptop.
Fortunately, you do not have to replace your old MacBook model to have a decently performing computer. There are multiple ways to salvage your current laptop and have it running better. Let’s take a look at how you can accomplish that.
Clear Cache
Starting with temporary system storage is a good approach. When the system has to dedicate its resources to process redundant files, it is natural that the computer will underperform.
https://setapp.com/how-to/clear-cache-on-mac provides information on how to clear cache and other temporary system junk to leave the system with fewer files to process.
Clean Dust Inside
The dust accumulates inside the laptop, whether you like it or not. And unless you remove it regularly, it will continuously pose a threat to the internal computer hardware.
As soon as you notice that the MacBook is overheating or that the internal fans are making loud noises, do not hesitate and clean the dust inside. And in case you are not confident enough to do the work yourself because you may damage the laptop, take it to a computer service store and pay money. Letting a professional handle this work is not that bad of an idea.
Free up Drive Storage
MacBooks are not that great when it comes to total available storage on their drives. The issue became quite apparent after Mac manufacturers replaced hard drives with solid-state drives. Even if the latter are better performance-wise, hard drives offer more storage.
It is recommended to have at least 15 percent of total computer drive storage free. Less than that, and you will experience performance difficulties.
There are a few methods to free up the MacBook’s drive space. For starters, you can remove redundant applications, media files, downloads, and other junk you no longer need.
Transferring data to an external hard drive and your iCloud account would help as well. There might be some files you want to keep, but if they are taking too much space, external storage should solve the problem.
Finally, if you hoard large media files on the MacBook, stop doing that. Instead, stick to streaming platforms and consume your media on Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, Hulu, and other streaming services.
Quit Redundant Background Apps
Background apps consume computer resources and slow down the overall performance. You need to quit redundant background apps to free up memory and other resources.
To do that, check Activity Monitor and sort processes by the most resources used. There might be some apps that you cannot quit. For example, antivirus software that detects and eliminates cybersecurity threats or a communication platform you use to keep in touch with your colleagues while working remotely.
However, if you notice that some apps are out of place and should not be running in the background, do not hesitate and close them.
Declutter Desktop
A cluttered desktop is not a pretty sight, but the problem lies in the efficiency rather than the appearance.
The MacBook has to render each desktop account every time you switch between the desktop and other tabs. Having multiple documents or app shortcuts is not ideal for a slow MacBook.
It might be difficult to get used to not having your documents and shortcuts on the MacBook’s desktop, but you will need to change that habit to have an optimally performing computer.
Confirm That Mac Is Malware-Free
Cybersecurity threats are not that common for MacBook owners because Apple is known for its security measures. However, the odds of attracting a virus or malware are still there.
You need to check the MacBook thoroughly to make sure that there are no viruses or malware on it. Use reliable antivirus software. If it finds any corrupted files, delete them from the computer.
Upgrade Hardware
Upgrading Mac hardware is tricky since not all models are compatible with hardware changes. Nevertheless, if you can make upgrade changes to your Mac, and you have the money for an upgrade, consider available options.
Replacing a hard drive with a solid-state drive is quite popular. Additional memory is worth a shout, especially given how cheap RAM is. Finally, you could also invest in an external GPU.
Run the Latest macOS Version
The last suggestion in this article is about installing the latest macOS version. Do not miss out on new features, security upgrades, and overall performance improvements. As soon as a new macOS version is out, you should download and install it on your MacBook.
