Troubleshoot Slow Chromebook: Tips to Improve Performance

Is your Chromebook running slower than usual? Don't worry, there are several simple steps you can take to optimize its speed and get it running smoothly again. This guide provides practical tips to diagnose and resolve performance issues on your Chrome OS laptop.

Identify Resource-Hogging Apps Using Task Manager

• How it helps: Pinpointing resource-intensive apps allows you to uninstall or manage them, freeing up system resources.

To access the Task Manager:

1. Open Chrome.
2. Select the three dots at the upper-right.
3. Go to More tools > Task manager.

Uninstalling culprit apps identified in the Task Manager will improve overall performance.

Confirm Your Network Speed for Optimal Performance

• Why it matters: Network issues can often be mistaken for Chromebook slowdowns.

Run quick network speed tests using online services like:

• Speedtest.Net
• TestMy.net
• Speedof.me

For ongoing monitoring, install Chrome OS apps like SpeedTest or OpenSpeedTest.

If network speed is the issue, troubleshoot your router or contact your ISP.

Free Up Space by Reducing Local Storage Clutter

• Why it's important: A full local storage drive can significantly impact performance.

Most Chromebooks have limited local storage (16-32 GB), which can quickly fill up. Consider these solutions:

• Add an SD card.
• Change your download location to cloud storage.
• Regularly delete unnecessary files.

Speed Up Page Loads With Page Prefetching

• Benefit: Caching linked pages improves browsing speed.

Enable page prefetching:

1. Open Chrome settings (three vertical dots).
2. Select Advanced at the bottom.
3. In Privacy and security, enable Preload pages for faster browsing and searching.

Improve Efficiency by Minimizing Chrome Extensions and Apps

• Why it matters: Poorly programmed extensions can cause slowdowns.

Review and remove unused extensions:

1. Type chrome.google.com/webstore/ in the Chrome browser.
2. Select the gear icon > My Extensions & Apps.
3. Remove any unnecessary extensions.

Consider resetting your Chrome browser as a last resort.

Optimize Performance by Clearing Browser Cache and Cookies

• How it helps: Clearing accumulated data keeps your browser running smoothly.

Regularly clear the cache and cookies to maintain optimal performance. Be mindful of the option to preserve browsing history if desired.

Reduce Script Impact by Blocking Javascript and Ads

• Benefit: Eliminating problematic scripts speeds up browsing.

Disable Javascript in Chrome settings under Privacy & Security > Site Settings. A less drastic approach is to use ad-blockers, but remember to safelist your favorite sites.

Boost Multitasking Using Hyper-Threading

• How it works: Run multiple processes simultaneously to avoid system lock-ups.

To enable hyper-threading, go to chrome://flags#scheduler-configuration and change Default to Enables Hyper-Threading on relevant CPUs. This feature is CPU-dependent.

Enhance Graphics Processing by Enabling GPU Rasterization

• Benefit: Offload web content processing to the GPU.

Enable this experimental feature by navigating to chrome://flags#GPU rasterization and changing the setting to Enabled.

When all else fails: Factory Reset Your Chromebook

• The nuclear option: As a last resort, reset your Chromebook to factory default.

A Powerwash will remove all data, apps, and settings, returning your Chromebook to its original state.