Why is my Windows server running slow? Tips to speed up your Windows server in 2024

Updated By

Linda 

Written By

Tracy King 

Last Updated on April 22, 2024

For developers and other tech experts, it has become quite common to blame the server when encountering desktop issues. However, the problem might be right there in your own server. Have you ever wondered why your Windows server is running slow, when just a few days ago it was fast? If so, then you should understand that the issue most likely lies within your server, which is essentially a large computer running unique software programs. The Windows operating system runs alongside your server, and certain conditions can cause it to slow down. This article will delve into explaining how to resolve such issues with some simple tricks.

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Why is my Windows server running so slowly?

Servers can become slow for many reasons. Various issues can contribute to sluggish performance. Below are some of the most common reasons why a Windows server might be running slowly.

• Low power states can slow down a server and reduce the processor's clock speed.
• Excessive use of RAM, or Random Access Memory.
• Running multiple large programs at once can slow a server down and cause high CPU usage.
• High network utilization while browsing the web can slow a server down.
• An abundance of junk files taking up hard drive space.
• Infection from viruses and other unnecessary malware.
• Lack of disk space, particularly on the computer's file storage drives.

If you want to speed up your Windows server, the first place to look is at these issues on your server. They are more likely to be the problem than anything else, and by testing these hypotheses, you can identify the issue without consulting an expert.

How can I optimize the performance of my Windows server?

There are a few steps to follow and issues to check to make your Windows server run faster. While the basics are listed here, let's look at how to analyze and optimize your system server.

Switch the power setting to High Performance mode.

Typically, each system or server has its own power requirements, which are necessary for its optimal functioning. The power consumed should be in accordance with the clock speed of the processor. Even a slight variation in power can slow down the processor. If your power supply fluctuates, you will not get the full efficiency of the processor throughout the day. Hence, a power backup system with an UPS (uninterruptible power supply) and voltage regulator ensures that the processor runs without any disturbance.

Close unnecessary background programs

No matter how much RAM your computer has, there's only so many programs that can be open at once. When you run a program, it loads into memory to run efficiently. This is the space provided by your RAM. Thus, if you try to run too many programs for your RAM to handle, your computer will slow down or freeze up. For this reason, it's important to close out any unnecessary programs before starting another one.

"Extend System Drive"

Instead of using a single system drive, it's better to separate the management drive from other drives with multiple partitions. This will prevent the system drive from getting cluttered, thus maintaining server speed. It's best to use an advanced software tool like Partition Master Enterprise for assistance. Such tools can expand the system drive without reducing its volume, and they are user-friendly.

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Option 1: Extend the System C drive using unallocated space

1. Right-click on the System C drive and select "Resize/Move Partition." 2. Drag the system partition towards the unallocated space to add it to the C drive. Then, click "OK." 3. Click "Execute Task" and "Apply" to perform the operation and extend the C drive.

Option 2: Expand the System C Drive without Unallocated Space

1. On the system disk, right-click a large partition with sufficient space and select "Allocate Space." 2. In the "Allocate space from (*) to" section, select the system drive, then drag the end of the System C drive to the unallocated space. Click "OK" to confirm. 3. Click "Execute Task," which will list the pending operations. Then click "Apply" to save the changes and extend the C drive.

0:00-0:26 Extend the system drive using unallocated space; 0:27-0:58 Extend the system drive without unallocated space.

Migrate a Windows Server Operating System to an SSD

The main issue with the system disk drive is that it's an HDD. With advanced technology available now, it's possible to migrate a Windows server operating system to a faster and more efficient SSD disk. Using the Partition Master tool, you can simplify the file transfer process into a few steps. It reduces the transfer time and ensures all data is迁移correctly without compromising file quality.

Steps to migrate the operating system to an HDD/SSD:

Launch the Partition Master software and select "Clone" from the left-hand menu. Tick "Migrate OS," then click "Next." Choose the SSD or HDD as the target disk, then click "Next." Note the warning: All data and partitions on the target disk will be deleted. Make sure to back up important data beforehand. If you haven't backed up, do it now. Click "Yes." Preview the layout of the target disk, then click "Start" to begin migrating the operating system to the new disk.

5. Click “Restart Now” or “Finish” to decide whether you want to restart your computer from the new disk immediately.

"Reboot Now" means to save the changes immediately, while "Done" means you will need to restart your computer manually later.

Note: If there is not enough unallocated space on the target disk, the OS migration to SSD or HDD operation will delete existing partitions and data on the target disk. Back up any important data saved on it to an external hard drive beforehand.

Add Memory

Random Access Memory (RAM) is crucial for boosting the speed of your server. There are various servers in the market based on RAM storage capacity, and it's necessary to choose one that suits the programs you'll be installing. However, when the need for additional storage arises suddenly, you can add more RAM to your system to speed up your Windows server.

Run Disk Cleanup

At times, auxiliary storage on the disk can also cause a server to run slow. With too much space taken up and inadequate room for program operations, the hard disk drive responsible for managing it often slows down the server's performance. To prevent this, it is necessary to perform disk cleanup to delete unnecessary files and retain essential data.

Remove viruses and malware

Having an updated antivirus program is crucial for most computers and servers. After installing an antivirus software, ensure that it runs at least once every 10 days to minimize the risk of external virus and malware attacks. This can contribute to a faster Windows server performance.

Run an antivirus program

Additional Tip: Keeping Your Windows Server Computer Running Fast and Efficiently

In addition to these professional recommendations, there are some tricks that can help you keep your Windows server running optimally. Here are a few pointers to consider.

• Utilize a separate external hard drive for storing and backing up data from the server's hard disk. This can free up unnecessary space and release disk space.
• Provide a stable power backup to your computer using devices like stabilizers and external batteries.
• Expand your computer's storage capacity by adding additional HDD or SSD drives.
• Regularly use a "Disk Cleanup" tool to check the system administrator drive, identifying unnecessary programs, and uninstalling them.
• Frequently back up data and clear cookies to enhance internet speed as well as server performance.

Conclusions

All of the above-mentioned techniques can be used to speed up Windows servers. A faster-running server takes the pressure off system administrators and ensures a flawless final output. Server maintenance is a necessary measure to be undertaken, whether it's a simple home computer or an advanced office one.