TL;DR: Start with health checks (SMART, RAM, startup, malware). If hardware is fine and Windows updates run cleanly, a tune-up usually restores speed same-day. If there’s persistent corruption, recurring malware, or a failing/old HDD, a clean reinstall (with backup) saves time and avoids repeat visits.

What we check first (and why it matters)

Storage health (SMART/SSD wear). If the disk’s unhealthy or still a spinning HDD, a reinstall to SSD is the winning move.
Free space (≥15% free). Low space = constant disk thrash and failed updates.
Startup & services. Toolbars, launchers and bloat slow boot.
Malware/PUPs. Repeat infections waste time—nuke from orbit with a reinstall if they keep returning.
Windows Update / component store. CBS errors and failed Feature Updates often indicate deeper OS issues.

Need help deciding fast? Book a Remote support session and we’ll run these checks with you.

Decision tree (plain-English version)

SMART warning or HDD present?
→ Replace/upgrade drive and clean reinstall Windows. You’ll feel the difference immediately.
Updates failing / DISM/SFC keep finding errors?
→ Clean reinstall. Deep OS rot is faster to fix fresh.
Malware found repeatedly or browser hijacks return?
→ Clean reinstall (after a quick data backup). Otherwise you’ll chase symptoms.
Hardware healthy, updates clean, just bloated startups?
→ Tune-up: remove PUPs, trim startups, update drivers/firmware, clear temp caches.
Unclear? Under exam or deadline pressure?
→ Start with a tune-up. If errors persist, pivot to reinstall the same day.

What’s in a professional tune-up

Targeted malware/PUP removal and browser reset
Startup & services trim; scheduled tasks review
Driver and Windows Update pass; optional BIOS/firmware where recommended
Disk cleanup (temporary files), privacy/sensor sanity, performance power plan
Short health report with next-step recommendations

Book it: Speed-up & tune-up · Virus & malware removal

What’s in a clean reinstall (with backup)

Pre-backup of your user profile (Desktop/Documents/Pictures, browser profile, “known folders”)
Fresh Windows 11 install, drivers, updates, device enrollment if needed
Reinstall your listed apps (as provided) and restore data to a tidy structure
Optional SSD upgrade during the same visit for maximum speed
Post-setup checklist: BitLocker/Microsoft account, OneDrive/Desktop redirection, default browser, printers

Book it: Windows reinstall with backup

Time & ZAR cost ranges (realistic for Stellenbosch)

Scenario	Our recommendation	Typical time	Typical ZAR range*
Healthy SSD, just bloated	Tune-up	1–2 hrs	R650–R1 200
Recurring malware/PUPs	Tune-up → Reinstall if it returns	1–3 hrs	R650–R1 600
HDD present / SMART warnings	Reinstall + SSD upgrade	2–4 hrs	R1 100–R2 800 (excl. SSD)
Update failures / corrupted OS	Clean reinstall with backup	2–4 hrs	R950–R1 600

* Final quote depends on model, data size and any extra parts/software you request. We’ll confirm at check-in.

Safe at-home checks (if you’re curious)

Task Manager → Startup. Disable obvious junk (toolbars, updaters).
Storage settings. Clear temp files; aim for ≥15% free.
Windows Security → Virus & threat protection. Run a scan once.
Command prompt (admin): sfc /scannow then DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth (don’t loop this if errors keep returning—fresh install is faster).

If you’d rather not tinker, we can do all of this for you same/next-day.

FAQs

Can you keep my files and apps on a reinstall?
We back up your files and restore them. Apps are reinstalled cleanly (you may need license keys for some).

How do I avoid getting slow again?
Use a password manager (no toolbars), keep drivers/Windows updated, and uninstall trialware. We can set a quarterly tune-up if you like.

Will a reinstall fix hardware problems?
No—bad RAM, failing SSD/HDD, or thermal issues need hardware attention. We’ll flag anything we find during diagnostics.

Can you do this today?
Often yes. Tune-ups are same-day; reinstalls are same/next-day depending on data size. Ask for priority if you’re mid-exam.

Windows 11 slow vs clean reinstall: Stellenbosch decision tree (with ZAR time/cost)