Steps
- Update your Operating System regularly to ensure that the operating system (OS) is updated with the latest security patches. To check whether you have the latest update, click on the Start Menu->All Programs and select the Windows Update icon.
- Usually installing any antivirus will slow down any system, so be wise and choose an antivirus which is effective but light on the system as well. NOrton is effective but it has at least 3 to 4 seperate processes running and i found it really slow down my system.On the other hand, Kaspersky is recommended because it is effective and does not hog your system resources. I would suggest that if you have a new computer or recently formatted your pc, try both of these seperately of course and judge for yourself which one is faster.Make sure you have backups of your important files though.
- Know what is running on your computer as this will increase your ability to identify potential harmful processes. Call up the Windows Task Manager (press CTRL+ALT+DEL) and familiarize yourself with the processes running at any point in time. Use the "msconfig" tool to check which programs are starting at the boot time. Some common tools (Acrobat Reader, HP printer driver, Java scheduler) have a nasty habit to "call home" and check for updates. You can uncheck those programs in the right-most tab of the "msconfig" tool.
- Cleanup your tool bar, by removing unnecessary software from running all the time. Every thing on your taskbar (specifically the icons near the clock) runs constantly, slowing down the computer.
- Install firewall software or use the Windows firewall. To activate your Windows Firewall click on your control panel and select Windows Firewall. Switch the firewall on by ticking the "On" radio button.
- Do a complete maintenance on your computer, at least once a month. This includes a Disk Defragmentation. If you have Windows, click on Start>Accessories>System Tools>Disk Cleanup>Disk Defrag. If you have linux you do not need to defragment as the filesystems in linux are more intellgent for file placement.
Tips
- Find and download free Spyware, and virus protectors on the internet. They usually let you download the non professional edition free.
- Most of the virus protectors come with maintenance programs that has a setting for you to have maintenance scheduled automatically.
- If you delete files often, then do the maintenance program, after deleting. Defrag fills the empty spaces left by deletions, that cause the computer to drag or work slowly.
Warnings
- By not maintaining and cleaning your computer, you will get error messages, slow running, and will not be as efficient. Get into the habit of running System Cleanup often.
- You maintain your car to run smoothly, well do the same thing with your computer.
Things You'll Need
- Anti Virus Software (download it free if possible)
- Firewall(plenty are excellent and are free)
Sources and Citations
- Home Computer Maintenance.com
- http://www.download.com/ - C.Net free downloads and information
- 6 More Steps You Can Take To Speed Up Your Computer's Performance
- http://www.debog.com
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