You know the frustration of a computer that keeps getting slower and slower every year? There are ways you can keep the speed up on an old computer[1] - but eventually, the hardware is going to get too outdated to run the latest software you need.
In the past, that's the point where you'd just go buy a new computer; I've talked before about how to know you've reached that point[2]. However, it's now become easier to give your old computer a second lease on life, or it into a usable computer for a friend or relative. All you need is one simple thing.
I'm talking about the operating system. And, I don't just mean that you should upgrade to Windows 10. While Windows 10 does run a lot better than past versions of Windows on low-powered hardware, it doesn't play nicely with your old hardware. To avoid this problem, you'll need to update to an operating system that isn't Windows.
Many people like using Linux for this purpose. Linux is a free, secure operating system that comes in a lot of versions, from full Windows replacements to tiny versions that can run a $35 Raspberry Pi computer. Linux Mint running the MATE desktop and elementary OS are two consumer-friendly options you can check out that work well on older hardware.
While these are powerful Windows replacements, there is a simpler option. Over the last few years, you've probably heard about Chromebooks. These are sub-$250 laptops that run Google's Chrome OS, which is an operating system version of Google's popular Chrome browser[3].
An operating system like this has a number of advantages, such as running very well on low-powered hardware. It has the same strong security as Chrome, and gets regular updates with performance and security fixes.
In addition, Chrome OS works a lot like Windows with a start button, taskbar and apps, so you can pick it up quickly. Most of the time, it's as easy to use as a standard Web browser. Plus, it can do many of the same things other operating systems can do, like video chat, play music, print documents and play games.
The Chrome OS programs are actually Web apps it runs from the cloud, and many of them are free. This also means that it stores your files online so you can access them anywhere on any gadget. If one of your Chrome OS computers crashes, you can log in on any other Chrome OS gadget and have your entire computer ready to go just the way you want it.
In the past, to get Chrome OS you'd need to shell out a few hundred dollars for a Chromebook or a Chrome OS-based desktop. That isn't the case anymore.
A company called Neverware has an operating system called CloudReady[4], which is a version of Chrome OS that works on a wide range of laptops and desktops, including Apple hardware. The best part for you is that it's free for home use (there's also a paid educational version that's great for school environments).
Installing a new operating system on a computer is always a little tricky, but Neverware has extensive step-by-step directions on its site. It has also tested CloudReady on each of its "certified hardware models" so it knows what features do and don't work correctly.
You can check the list of certified hardware models to see if your laptop or desktop qualifies and how well CloudReady will work. Even if your model isn't on the list, you can install the OS anyway and see what happens. Many people have found it works just fine.
In general, CloudReady runs on laptops and desktops made in 2007 or newer, and Netbooks from 2009 and on. It needs at least 1GB of RAM to run smoothly, but because it relies a lot on cloud storage and Web apps, it only needs 8GB of storage space.
On some computers, you can dual-boot CloudReady and Windows if you don't want to give up Windows entirely. As always, be sure your information is backed up in case something goes wrong during the installation.
If you're installing CloudReady on your main computer, you can back up your files by moving them to Google Drive. You can also move your photos to Google Photos[5] and upload your music to Google Music. By doing this, they'll all be there when you install and sign in to CloudReady. CloudReady also supports other cloud services like Dropbox[6] if you'd prefer to use a non-Google product.
Of course, some people want to stick with Windows. If that's the case for you personally, then it's probably time to start looking for a new computer. The process can feel daunting, but it won't be if as long as you know what to look for[7]. Or, you might decide you don't need a computer at all. These days, there are also plenty of tablets that make excellent alternatives[8].
On the Kim Komando Show[9], the nation's largest weekend radio talk show, Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com[10]. Email her at techcomments@usatoday.com[11].
References
- ^ keep the speed up on an old computer (www.komando.com)
- ^ how to know you've reached that point (www.komando.com)
- ^ Chrome browser (www.komando.com)
- ^ CloudReady (www.neverware.com)
- ^ Google Photos (www.komando.com)
- ^ Dropbox (www.komando.com)
- ^ know what to look for (www.komando. com)
- ^ tablets that make excellent alternatives (www.komando.com)
- ^ Kim Komando Show (www.komando.com)
- ^ Komando.com (www.komando.com)
- ^ techcomments@usatoday.com (www.usatoday.com)
