My MBP 2010 17" is sluggish

[hajime]

Hello, I had not used it for about three months. When I started to use it a week ago, it has been really sluggish. What could be the problem? Is my HD going to be out of service?

 

[Fishrrman]

If you plan on keeping it for another 2-3 years, put an SSD into it.

The installation on the 2010 models is "screwdriver easy" and you will be AMAZED at the increase in drive performance.

Visit ifixit.com to see the procedure.
One IMPORTANT advisory --- be sure to use THE RIGHT TOOLS for the job.
Phillips #00 screwdriver and TORX T-6.

 

[hajime]

If you plan on keeping it for another 2-3 years, put an SSD into it.

The installation on the 2010 models is "screwdriver easy" and you will be AMAZED at the increase in drive performance...

My workplace gave me a rMBP 15" 2014. Of course it is faster but it does not explain why there are pauses and fireball even as I am typing this reply.

 

[Altemose]

My workplace gave me a rMBP 15" 2014. Of course it is faster but it does not explain why there are pauses and fireball even as I am typing this reply.

That could be a background task seizing total control of the CPU. Check your Memory Pressure and CPU usage in Activity Monitor.