Goal: Make your device feel fast again without buying new hardware.
Quick prep
Save your work.
Plug in your laptop (so maintenance doesn’t pause).
Steps (Windows)
Install updates
Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates → Install and restart. Microsoft SupportClose heavy background apps
Right-click the taskbar → Task Manager → Processes → select any app using high CPU/Memory → End task. Apple SupportFree up storage
Settings → System → Storage → turn on Storage Sense → Cleanup recommendations. Aim for 15–20% free space.Scan for malware
Start → Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Quick scan. Keep Real-time protection on. Microsoft Support
Steps (Mac)
Install updates
System Settings → General → Software Update. Microsoft SupportFind resource hogs
Open Activity Monitor → sort by CPU or Memory → quit or force quit runaway apps. Apple SupportManage storage
Apple menu → About This Mac → Storage → Manage… → remove large files & unused apps.
Why this helps: Updates patch bugs, closing heavy apps frees memory/CPU, storage headroom prevents slowdowns, and scans remove threats.
Sources:Windows update: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/update-windowsTask Manager: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/open-task-managerFree up space: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/free-up-drive-space-in-windowsWindows Security scan: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/virus-and-threat-protection-in-the-windows-security-appmacOS update: https://support.apple.com/macosActivity Monitor: https://support.apple.com/guide/activity-monitor/welcomeManage Mac storage: https://support.apple.com/HT206996