10 tips to speed up your MacBook

When you buy a computer, initially everything runs and seems fine, doesn't it? But surely you've noticed that after some time, there's a drop in your device's performance: it takes longer to log in, programmes run more slowly, among other situations that hinder your attempts to use the device.

As you'd expect with Apple equipment, MacBooks are extraordinarily resistant to this process and can function for several years without any noticeable drop in performance.

Of course, they're not completely immune to this situation and it's natural that older MacBooks begin to show a slight drop in performance as time passes.

Don't know what to do when your old MacBook is slowing down or beginning to show some lack of performance?

Today we're going to suggest some tips to try to reverse and speed up your MacBook! And you know, whenever you need help our technical support department is available to assist you.

Close Applications

One of the first things to check (and perhaps one of the quickest and simplest fixes to implement) is whether your MacBook is overloaded with many applications, programmes or complex processes.

It's natural that a MacBook loaded with tasks will struggle more to execute them simultaneously without issues. Therefore, by completely closing applications you're not using, you can improve the speed and performance of your device.

Many applications may be running in the background without you realising they're open - to correct this situation, check the icons along the taskbar at the bottom; any one that has a black dot is running.

Check your web browsing

Just as running several applications simultaneously can slow your Mac, having many pages and windows open in your Internet browser can make your Mac slower. It's preferable to avoid opening a significant number of windows and regularly close those you're not using.

Delete unwanted files and documents

Generally, the speed and performance of your device depend on how much storage space is being used. When a MacBook has used a large portion of its storage, it's likely to function more slowly than with a hard drive with ample free space. Removing files, documents or photos taking up space means that deleting what you don't need can make a big difference.

You must make sure that when you move them to the Bin, you also empty it - otherwise, the files aren't really deleted and still take up the same amount of space!

If you have many documents you don't want to delete, consider backing them up to a storage system - iCloud, for example - or invest in an external hard drive, so the files are safe and protected.

Remove applications unused

Just like documents and photos, applications or programmes can take up a significant portion of hard drive space.

Have a look at the applications or software you've installed and remove those you rarely use.

Check Activity Monitor

MacBooks have an excellent way to quickly check which applications and programmes are overloading your device – Activity Monitor. A very useful tool!

Clear the cache

Many people don't know it exists: the cache is a folder of files that accumulates over time.

If you run many different applications or programmes, and have never cleaned the folder, your cache likely contains many unnecessary files. Most of them have no use and are simply taking up space and interfering with your MacBook's performance.

To clear the cache, open Finder, select the "Go" option at the top of the screen, followed by the "Go to Folder" option in the menu. In the pop-up box displayed, type: ~/Library/Caches/, which will display all cache files present on your Mac. From there, you can choose which ones you want to delete.

Update macOS

Older versions of your MacBook's operating system can really impair performance.

Recent versions of macOS are more compatible with recent versions of the applications, programmes and processes you use.

If a conflict arises between the latest application updates in relation to the version older of the operating system installed on your Mac, you'll certainly notice a significant drop in performance. Therefore, we recommend that you update to the latest version so your Mac works perfectly.

To find out which is the latest version your Mac is compatible with, simply contact our technical support department or consult the information available on Apple's website: https://support.apple.com/pt-pt/109033

Upgrade your MacBook's RAM

The amount of RAM installed in your device can make a substantial difference in terms of speed and overall performance and, although it's not possible to upgrade the RAM in all MacBook models, increasing the amount you have can greatly improve your device's performance and transform your machine, making it faster.

Upgrade your hard drive

Just like with RAM, upgrading your hard drive (especially if you have an old-style HDD installed) can significantly increase your MacBook's speed.

Avoid installing third-party software

Although the internet has countless interesting and useful applications and software to download, we recommend proceeding with caution when it comes to third-party software, that is, anything not available on the App Store.

Many developers seek to launch programmes, applications and software that can help people get the most out of their Mac. However, tools that haven't been released by Apple carry an increased risk of malware or viruses, causing many problems. Keep your machine secure, avoid downloading software or applications that aren't from the App Store, and only do so if you're sure it's from a legitimate and secure source.

If you've tried all these corrections and suggestions to speed up your MacBook, but feel you're not enjoying the performance you expected then...IT'S TIME TO UPGRADE TO A NEW MACBOOK!

At iOutlet™, we can help you find a refurbished MacBook, ideal for you and your needs, saving you money and getting an incredible device with high quality at an excellent price.