5 essential optimisation tips to boost PC gaming performance

• Updating graphics drivers, closing unnecessary background applications and optimising in-game graphics settings can significantly improve frame rates and overall gaming performance
• Regular PC maintenance, including cleaning dust, updating your operating system and ensuring adequate storage space, helps prevent overheating and performance slowdowns
• Enabling your monitor's highest refresh rate, using technologies like G-SYNC or FreeSync and installing games on an SSD can deliver a smoother and more responsive gaming experience

A powerful gaming PC doesn't always guarantee smooth gameplay. Over time, even high-end systems can begin to experience frame drops, longer loading times and performance issues caused by outdated software, background applications or incorrect settings.

The good news is that improving your gaming experience doesn't always require buying new hardware. A few simple optimisation techniques can help you squeeze more performance out of your existing PC.

Here are five essential tips to help your games run faster and smoother.

1. Update your graphics drivers

Your graphics card is one of the most important components for gaming, and keeping its drivers up to date can significantly improve performance.

Graphics card manufacturers regularly release driver updates that optimise new game releases, fix bugs and improve stability. Before installing a newly released game, check whether there's a recommended driver update available.

Updated drivers can also reduce crashes, improve compatibility and increase frame rates in supported titles.

2. Close unnecessary background applications

Every application running in the background consumes valuable system resources.

Before launching a game, close web browsers with dozens of tabs, streaming software, file downloads and other unnecessary programs that may be using your processor, memory or internet connection.

You can also review which applications start automatically when your computer boots and disable those you don't need.

Freeing up system resources allows your PC to dedicate more power to your game.

3. Optimise your in-game graphics settings

Not every graphics setting affects gameplay equally.

If you're experiencing low frame rates, lowering demanding settings such as shadows, reflections, volumetric lighting, ray tracing and anti-aliasing can produce significant performance improvements with only a small reduction in visual quality.

Finding the right balance between graphics and performance is often more effective than simply choosing the highest available settings.

4. Keep your PC clean and well maintained

Dust may seem harmless, but it can restrict airflow and cause your computer to overheat.

When components become too hot, many systems automatically reduce performance to protect the hardware. Cleaning your PC's fans, air vents and filters regularly helps maintain proper cooling and consistent gaming performance.

It's also worth ensuring your storage drive has enough free space and that your operating system receives regular updates.

A well-maintained PC is generally a faster and more reliable one.

5. Enable your display's best gaming settings

Many gamers overlook their monitor settings.

If your monitor supports a higher refresh rate, make sure your operating system is actually using it. Playing at 120Hz, 144Hz or higher can make games feel significantly smoother than the default 60Hz setting.

If supported by your hardware, enabling technologies such as NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD FreeSync can also reduce screen tearing and improve overall gameplay.

Optimising your display settings helps you get the full benefit of your gaming hardware.

Bonus tips for even better performance

If you're looking for additional improvements, consider these simple upgrades:

• Install games on an SSD to reduce loading times.
• Upgrade your RAM if your system frequently runs out of memory.
• Use Game Mode on Windows to prioritise gaming performance.
• Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures while gaming.
• Restart your PC before long gaming sessions to clear unnecessary background processes.

How to protect yourself from online banking fraud in Nigeria

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier compiled a detailed practical guide on how to protect yourself from online banking fraud in Nigeria.

With the growth of digital banking, scammers are using phishing messages, fake apps and social engineering to steal money and sensitive information from unsuspecting users.

Never share PINs, OTPs or passwords, and avoid clicking on suspicious links, as fraudsters often impersonate banks to trick users into revealing confidential information.

Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid public Wi-Fi for banking, and regularly check your account for unusual transactions to detect fraud early.