How to speed up my MacBook Pro 2009

2 GB 1067 MHz DDR3 memory.

Max out your RAM. Download this free utility Mactracker. It will tell you the maximum RAM allowed for your model MBP.

Mac OS X (10.7.2)

Use Software Update or the OS combo update to update your OS. Also, update everything SU has to offer for your computer. When done, repair permissions and restart your computer.

(Microsoft Office applications, Google Chrome).

I've read elsewhere in the forums that Mactracker is considered malware and to avoid it.

Post the links of these threads. This is the FIRST I've heard that Mactracker is malware. It's a HIGHLY regarded piece of software. Tells you everything you need to know plus more about Macs.

Not sure why it says 10.7.2, but my software is indeed updated to 10.8.3.

Please correct your system profile to show your current OS. This is very important because when you come here seeking help, you would want the correct troubleshooting suggestions.

From your original post.

"I am still experiencing the sometimes slow opening of applications (Microsoft Office applications, Google Chrome)."

Reason for my response.

You have the minimum RAM requirements running Mountain Lion.

If you feel like spending a pretty penny, (Around $200), upgrade to a Solid State Hard Drive. This will inprove load times DRAMATICLY. Also, Upgrade to AT LEAST 4GB of RAM.

Hope This Helps!

Replace hard drive with SSD

Upgrade RAM

Ugrade OS

Done

You maybe confusing Mactracker and Mackeeper. The latter is garbage, the former is not.

You do not mention running Repair Disk.

Reboot the computer while holding down command + r (both keys). Release the keys when you see the Apple logo.

Select Disk Utility on the next screen, and when it runs, select your drive on the left, First Aid on the top centre, and click on Repair Disk.

When its done, restart the Mac.

This is not to disagree with Templeton Peck's advice, rather to suggest that you do some basic maintenance and see if things get better.

You really need to upgrade your RAM - 8GB DDR3 1066MHz SODIMM is going for around $50 - $60 (depending where you shop) - Do not cheap out and install non Apple Certified RAM.

Install RAM made by Crucial, Corsair, Mushkin, G.Skill, Patriot Mac Series and Kingston (non value).

That will give you a nice boost of speed with your Applications.

If however, you want overall boost in speed - do a RAM and SSD upgrade combo. You'll spend around $150 to $175 for the 8GB RAM and 120GB upgrade combo or $200 - $250 with a 8GB RAM and 240GB/256GB SSD upgrade combo.

Good luck

I suggest you read this user tip to orient your self regarding the reasons why your MBP is not operating as you would like. Then you maybe in a position to decide what action to take.

https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-3521

Ciao.

I upgraded to 8 GB and it helped a lot. Thanks!