A laptop is an expensive item; over time, continuous updates, can slow them down until they become almost unusable. This is, of course deliberate, to encourage you to purchase a new Laptop (and pay for Windows again).

Many laptops still have plenty of life left in them and it is such a shame that they will now just contribute to WEEE waste or worst still, landfill.

If only there was a way to put then to good use... Well, there is!

If you are familiar with the Linux operating system, then look no further than "Xubuntu". This is a Linux distribution that was specifically developed for breathing new life into old laptops. Just Google Xubuntu and download the installer, either on to a USB stick or even CD if the laptop has a reader.

Once installed, the performance of the laptop will be back to it's old self and ready to provide you with many more years of service.

"Oh, but I use a particular Windows program." I hear you say. Well Linux has thought of that. Install the Wine package and you will be able to run Windows programs.

I have an old laptop running Xubuntu that I use for tuning my Triumph Vitesse with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) The two Windows software packages "What's-up Display" and "Tuner Pro" both run perfectly well under Wine.