A user reports that access to a file server is slower than usual. When monitoring shows no significant resource changes, what is the best next step?

When a user reports slow access to a file server but monitoring indicates no significant resource changes on the server, the most prudent next step is to troubleshoot the user's PC. This approach is critical because the issue may not originate from the server itself but rather from the user's device, network configuration, or external factors affecting their connection.

Troubleshooting the user's PC allows for an examination of various potential causes such as network settings, hardware issues, outdated drivers, or even local software conflicts that might be impacting the user’s experience. This method is often more efficient initially, as it addresses the immediate user environment rather than making assumptions about the server's performance or reallocating resources unnecessarily.

In contrast, adding RAM to either the user's PC or the server assumes that there is a resource limitation, which monitoring has not shown to be the case. Similarly, adding hard drive space to the server would not address the user's reported slowdown if the server's resources are already functioning correctly. Therefore, investigating the user's PC is the most logical and effective first step in resolving the reported issue.