PC Help GuideComputer tips to improve speed and fix errorsMenuSkip to contentHomeArticlesSoftware and DownloadsSpeed Up Windows 8Leave a replyJust like other operating systems Windows 8 can become slow if you don’t optimise it for best performance, here are some basic tweaks that you can do to speed up Windows 8 and make it run smoother.Disable AnimationsJust like in other Windows operating systems, Windows 8 is full of ‘cool looking’ features that also can slow down your performance. Here is what you need to do to edit these visial effects:Click windows keyType advanced system settings and select settingsUnder performance click settingsYou will now find yourself in the visual effects areaHere you can simply click custom and select which visual effects you would likeClick applyEdit Startup ProgramsHere you can select what programs start when your PC is booting up, this will improve the speed of your boot:Open task managerClick startup tabHere you can select which programs start up at bootClean Your RegistryJust like other version of Windows you should make sure your registry is always clean, this will improve the speed and performance of your PC:Use regcure Pro to clean up your registryTweak Your Power OptionIf you use AC power for your PC then you should maximize your power performance:Open control panelGo to system and securityClick power optionsSelect high performanceUpdate Your DriversMake sure that all your drivers for all your peripherals and devices are up to date and working, that insures that your PC will work efficiently:Use driver detective to update and maintain your driversWindows 8 UpdatesIt may sound obvious, but make sure you are always up to date with the latest updates for Windows 8, this will insure your operating system should run smoothly.Follow this link for some more info from Microsoft about their updates.Use Task ManagerWith the new look task manager you can see in detail what exactly is using up all your CPU, RAM, bandwidth and hard drive. With this information you should be able to work out what programs/apps are making your PC run sluggish.Toolbox for Windows 8Try this very useful tool, it allows you to use up to 6 different tools at once on your screen including Facebook, Twitter and a browser.  This is very handy if you work from a large screen but useless if you want to use it from a smart phone.Click this link to access the Toolbox.This entry was posted in Computer Performance, Tweaks and Tips on September 24, 2013 by admin.Windows 8 Windows Key ShortcutsLeave a replyHere is a useful list of shortcuts using the windows key you can use for Windows 8, leave a comment below if you know of any others:Win + Enter : launch the NarratorWin + PgUp : change your screen to the left-hand monitorWin + PgDn : change your screen to the right-hand monitorWin + PrtSc : capture your screen and save it to your Pictures folderWin + Tab : switch between your running appsWin + W : search your system settingsWin + X :