Temporary Performance Settings for Computer Problems

B.

Based on the given scenario, the customer's computer is experiencing performance issues due to low system resources. The best way to address the issue is to upgrade the system's hardware components such as the RAM or the processor. However, the question asks for the best performance setting change that can help the customer temporarily until a proper upgrade can be made. Let's discuss each of the given options to identify the best solution.

A. Data execution prevention (DEP) DEP is a security feature that helps prevent malicious code from running on a computer by monitoring programs and services to ensure they use memory safely. It does not directly address the low system resource issue, and enabling it may cause some legitimate programs to stop working correctly.

B. Page-file size The page-file size refers to the amount of space allocated on the hard disk for virtual memory. Increasing the page-file size can help compensate for the lack of physical RAM and improve system performance. However, it can also increase the amount of time it takes for the system to boot up and shut down.

C. Visual effects Visual effects such as animations and transparency can make the operating system look more appealing but can also consume significant system resources. Disabling or reducing visual effects can help improve system performance, but it may also affect the user's experience.

D. Processor scheduling Processor scheduling is a setting that determines how the processor allocates resources to different tasks. By default, the setting is optimized for background services and not for foreground applications. Changing the setting to prioritize foreground applications can help improve the performance of the system's active programs.

Based on the given options, the best performance setting change that can help the customer temporarily until a proper upgrade can be made is D. Processor scheduling. Changing the processor scheduling setting can help ensure that the system's active programs receive the necessary resources to run smoothly. However, it is important to note that this is only a temporary solution and upgrading the system's hardware components should be prioritized for a long-term solution.