My pc is suddenly very slow and making loud noises

Understanding Sudden PC Slowdowns and Loud Noises: Troubleshooting Tips for Non-Technical Users

Introduction

A computer experiencing sudden sluggishness and loud noises can be concerning, especially if you’re unfamiliar with its internal components. These issues can be caused by various factors, including dust accumulation, hardware malfunction, or other technical problems. This article aims to clarify potential causes and suggest appropriate actions to help you address these symptoms effectively.

Background Scenario

Imagine you received a pre-built desktop PC as a gift in July 2023. Over time, your room became dusty, and dust accumulated inside the computer. While unsure about how to clean the hardware yourself, you deferred to a technician for cleaning. Recently, you noticed the computer making loud noises and performing sluggishly—movements like mouse cursors lagging or delayed responses. Concerned, you sought advice online but were overwhelmed due to limited technical knowledge.

Possible Causes of the Issue

Dust Buildup and Cooling Problems

Over time, dust can settle inside a PC, clogging fans, heatsinks, and vents. This buildup hampers airflow, leading to higher internal temperatures. Overheated components, particularly the CPU or graphics card, may trigger loud fan noises as they attempt to cool down. Additionally, thermal throttling can cause the system to slow down significantly, resulting in laggy performance.

Fan or Hard Drive Malfunctions

Loud noises might also originate from failing fans or a malfunctioning hard drive. Fans producing grinding or buzzing sounds can indicate wear and might fail soon. Similarly, a failing hard drive can generate abnormal noises and cause system slowdowns or freezes.

Hardware or Power Supply Issues

In some cases, irregular noises and performance issues may stem from power supply problems or loose hardware connections, which can disrupt the stable operation of your PC.

Recommended Steps to Diagnose and Resolve

Assess Dust and Airflow

Since your room is dusty, it’s crucial to ensure internal cleanliness. If you’re unfamiliar with cleaning hardware, consider consulting a professional technician. Proper cleaning involves carefully removing dust from fans, heatsinks, and vents to restore optimal airflow.

Check for Unusual Noises

Identify where sounds are coming from—fans, hard drive, or elsewhere. If noise persists after cleaning, or if components appear to be malfunctioning, professional inspection is recommended.