When you're done for the day and it's time to get going, few things are more frustrating than waiting for the computer to shut down. One of the biggest causes is too many programs running, but you may have to look further for a solution. Once you clear up what's slowing Windows down, shutdown should happen more rapidly, but maintaining a clean computer and registry can also help prevent future slowdowns.
Certain desktop applications continue to run in the background even after you exit them. This is one of the most common reasons for decreased PC performance in general and the shutdown process specifically. As the computer shuts down it has to ask each program if it's OK to close it before exiting, including those running in the background, meaning shutdown can take much longer. Close as many open programs as you can before shutting down.
Malware is malicious software designed to collect information on your behavior, to spread to other computers or simply to cause disruption. Usually, malware slows down PC performance by replicating itself across all sorts of different files and folders, clogging up the computer's memory, and it can even prevent Windows from shutting down properly. Run virus protection software to keep malware off the computer and remove it if it gets on.
Sometimes, when programs aren't uninstalled properly, executable commands are left in the registry. Windows may attempt to run these commands and, depending on the nature of the program, this could interfere with the shutdown process. Free downloadable programs, such as EasyCleaner, CCleaner and Wise Registry Cleaner, will help clean out the registry mainly by identifying and removing registry entries that point to files and programs that no longer exist. It's best to choose only registry cleaners that create backups, so any entries that shouldn't have been deleted can be restored quickly and easily.
Visual effects on the Windows desktop can slow down PC performance, including the shutdown process. The worst offenders tend to be sliding and fading windows, taskbar animations and shadowing behind windows and the cursor. To disable these effects, open the Charms bar and click on "Settings" and then "Control Panel." Select the "Performance and maintenance" icon and then in the left pane click "Adjust visual effects." The "Let Windows choose what's best for my computer" option will automatically optimize visual settings based on the computer's specs; "Adjust for best performance" removes all the effects, while "Custom" enables you to pick and choose from a list of options. Just click on "OK" to save changes.
Windows 8 employs Hybrid Shutdown mode, which enables you to turn off and start up the computer much more quickly. It works by hibernating, rather than turning off the kernel -- the component that links software applications to the hardware. However, this feature has been known to cause issues with computer performance. To disable Hybrid Shutdown simply type "power" (without quotes) into the search box in the Charms bar, and then click on “Settings” and the option "Change what the power buttons do." Deselect "Turn on fast startup (recommended)," and then save all the changes and restart the PC.
- Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images