4.3.3. Integrated Troubleshooting Scenario: The Slow Computer
💡 First Principle: The vague symptom of a "slow computer" requires investigating multiple potential causes across hardware (RAM, HDD), software (malware, startup apps), and sometimes the network.
Scenario: A user complains their computer has become "very slow" over the last few weeks. It takes a long time to boot, and applications are not responsive.
Malware signs: High CPU or memory use together with pop-ups, redirects, or a hijacked browser points to malware. Update the anti-malware signatures, then run a full scan and remove what it finds before changing hardware, drivers, or network settings.
Reflection Question: In the "Slow Computer" scenario, why is checking the Task Manager for resource utilization the most effective first step in forming a theory?
