Identify issues causing PC sluggishness. Check system performance, update software, and ensure hardware stability.
Identify issues causing PC sluggishness. Check system performance, update software, and ensure hardware stability.
Last week I acquired a refurbished PC from 2021. Before buying it, I observed performance issues but found the benchmarks and price satisfactory. Post-purchase, I tested Cinebench R24, Unigine Heaven, CrystalDiskInfo/Mark, and performed four rounds of MemTest86 to evaluate key hardware. Besides elevated temperatures on the i9-10850k (80-90°C under load) and a failing M.2 drive, everything functioned normally. I attributed the slowness mainly to the Windows installation process, since the seller used Windows 10’s built-in reinstall instead of a complete USB reset beforehand. I relocated all components except two drives into a new enclosure, reinstalled Windows, and updated the BIOS, yet the system remained unresponsive. SSD read/write speeds were acceptable in CrystalDiskMark tests, but launching Cinebench to desktop took nearly five minutes. I suspect CPU-related factors might be involved, though the scores matched expectations for that processor. After a fresh Windows setup and improved benchmark results, I’m unsure what to do next. Should I adjust CPU voltages? Are there more efficient SSD testing methods? Could the motherboard be the issue? I’ve had no crashes or BSODs, just extreme sluggishness. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Below are the full specifications.
I mean something slow or difficult to move, like a heavy load that takes longer to process. The SSD you're using is currently [insert model name]. There don’t seem to be any problems in the event viewer. If Cinebench and benchmarks are doing well, it likely isn’t a hardware problem.
It's a standard Kingston 960Gb SSD with 86% health according to CrystalDiskInfo. There are two types of issues in the event viewer. My operating system is Finnish, but I believe the translator did a satisfactory job. Error code 15: "The embedded controller returned data even though no data was requested. The BIOS might attempt to use the embedded controller without syncing with the OS. This info is disregarded. No further steps needed. Still recommend checking your manufacturer for a BIOS update." Error code 10016: "The application-specific access rights settings don't allow DESKTOP-JPCQD85\Weguli from LocalHost (LRPC enabled) to use the specified SID and CLSID, with activation set to Not Available. This permission can be adjusted via component services management." These problems appear often. It seems the BIOS isn't functioning properly? It's odd given I just installed the latest version... Edit: To clarify the slowness: generally slow and unresponsive behavior when performing basic tasks. Opening a small folder in File Explorer can take about twenty seconds, and downloading files feels delayed. Everything seems to stall for an unreasonably long time. It feels like I've been using this Windows installation for five years even though it's only a few hours old."
Neither connection is perfect for booting a drive. The Intel unit has surpassed its warranty protection level for TBW, and both drives might cause delays in specific situations—particularly when handling big files or performing data extraction. Additionally, the SA400 is reporting uncorrectable SATA errors. It’s worth considering a different SATA cable if you haven’t already tried it.
I considered switching to Windows on another SSD, but I wouldn’t use either as a boot device or for storing vital data. The only replacement I consistently make for used or refurbished systems is the SSDs, since the cost of new ones makes it unwise. Also, the performance issues are likely due to the SSD itself.
I'll purchase a new SSD and observe any improvements. The other storage devices on this system were also in poor shape, which might be the main issue. Appreciate the advice!