Alright, so first my specs:
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-2370M
CPU @ 2.40GHz 2.40GHz
Installed memory (RAM): 4GB (3.87GB usable)
System type: 64-bit Operating System,
x64-based processor
This is indeed a Windows 8 laptop. More specifically, it's a Dell Inspiron 3520.
I know it's not a fantastic PC, but it serves me well for my games, homework, etc etc… Until recently that is.
When I first got the laptop, all my games ran smoothly for the most part unless the area was overcrowded or heavy in graphics. However I always chose the lowest graphic settings for all my games so it would be much easier for me.
One of the first MMOs I downloaded was Neverwinter and it worked fine, but as time passed my computer began to lag… Heavily. At first I thought it was my internet connection because it's not fantastic, but that's a different type of lag than lag spikes. I now get spikes every few seconds from when I start my game to when I close it. Of course the smaller the area I'm in, the smoother it runs, but I used to not have problems like this whatsoever.
I checked for viruses and cleared my RAM up a bit to see if it helped, but to no avail. I noticed that when I play games my laptop overheats rapidly, and I'll usually only have the game and maybe the launcher open. Here are the programs/games I use:
MalwareBytes Anti-Malware (free)
Neverwinter
FeralHeart
TERA
WolfQuest
World of Warcraft
Minecraft an Technic