5 steps to improving the performance of your computer
I’ve fixed many computers, each one with their own unique problem; seldom will I find a computer with a hardware issue or something that doesn’t pertain to the software on their machine. Many computer troubles are a result of the user being unaware of how to properly maintain their system.
Computer users need to be aware of how they can improve the overall cleanliness and performance of their machine with these 5 steps:
1. Choose the right applications
You need to be conscious of the software you install on your computer and what is installed on it. With so many applications on the Internet, it’s not hard to fill up your computer with unnecessary software. Visit your Add/Remove Programs within your control panel frequently to check which programs you need or no longer need. Try not to use applications that run on startup unless absolutely necessary.
2. Adware, Firewalls, and Antivirus
There are loads of antivirus software, Firewalls, and ad removing tools on the Internet. Keep it simple, and use only trusted software. If this means having to purchase a product, consider it a $50 investment to protect your $1,000 +/- machine. I recommend using Norton System Works, an all in one utility for adware, firewalls, antivirus, and much more. I use Norton because I’ve found it doesn’t bog my computer down like other similar applications do; and they are a well trusted name in PC security and repair.
3. Say goodbye to 3rd party display applications
I’ve found these to be the number one resource eater on any computer I’ve encountered. Stick with the windows color schemes and screensavers; Do not to use a 3rd party application to “manage” wallpapers, cursors, screensavers, and display/color schemes. I’ve come across many programs that will allow you to have “skins” for windows; avoid these as they can seriously deprive your system of much needed resources.
4. General system maintenance
Don’t take for granted that your computer will operate well on its own. Even if you haven’t installed software or made changes on your computer; simple day to day activities such as browsing the Internet or saving files can take a toll on your system. System maintenance is extremely important; Clear your Internet browsers temporary files weekly as these can add up quick. I’ve seen cases where there have been over 100,000 temporary files a computer, and at that point they are no longer saving you time. Scan your computer for viruses and other malicious software frequently, and when you have the time, Use the Windows system tools to defragment your hard drives.
5. Make your shortcuts neat and orderly
A computer can only be as fast as the person who is operating it; therefore, it is well worth your time to organize your shortcuts and files so that you can easily navigate your computer. You shouldn’t have to search through your All Programs, within the start menu, to find a particular program to run. For programs that you use daily, Right-click and drag their shortcuts to your desktop to create a copy of it that you can easily access. Create new folders on your start menu/programs to identify the types of software you have, and move the appropriate shortcuts into them; For instance, I have the folders Imaging Applications, Web Applications, and Media Applications (just to name a few) within my All Programs to aid in shortcut navigation and reduce clutter. There is absolutely no need to have an entire desktop worth of folders pop up when you “roll over” All Programs.
If your still experiencing difficulties, you may want to read TECH.BLORGE.com’s Essential tune-ups for Windows XP.
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December 23rd, 2007
What Norton doesn’t slow down your computer? Did symantec pay you to write that???? Norton is bloated and slow, burys itself deep within the OS making it very difficult it uninstall. Bitdefender Total, Kaspersky, Eset Smart Security(Nod32 w firewall/adware scanner) are all MUCH better choices.
May 25th, 2009
Jason is right, Norton slows computers down like crazy. Post was written in 2006, back then Norton applications were not that fat and slow… but still, NOD32 is the asnwer.