Advice

Keep you PC running smoothly!

Over time you will probably notice that you PC doesn't appear to be running as quickly as it was when you first purchased it. There are many factors that can cause this to happen but there are also some things that you can do to minimise the possibility of this happening. The frequency that the following options are recommended as a guide only.

Perform once:

• Make sure that you have a firewall installed and activated. Windows XP has a firewall built into it but if you have a different Operating system there are numerous vendors that you can purchase this software from.
• Remove optional Windows components that you don't use in order to free up space.
• Get some anti-spyware software installed. Microsoft have launched Windows Defender which provides real time protection against spyware.

Regular basis:

• Ensure you have a good antivirus program installed and perform a full scan of your system on a regular basis. Stay up to date - It is important to use the Windows Update feature to download the latest security patches and other fixes for your Operating System.
• Always set a System Restore point before installing new software, this will enable you to revert to the last working point if there is a problem with the installation.
• Backup your important data on a regular basis, you will need removable media such as floppies, CD, memory stick or external hard drive for this operation.
• Always shut down your PC in the proper manner, if programs hang use, Ctrl+Alt+Delete (together) and Task Manager to close programs that are not responding. Avoid use the power button to close down the PC, only use this if all other methods fail.

Weekly Basis:

• Clean up the hard disk of temporary files.
• Delete your temporary Internet files.
• Empty the recycle bin.

Monthly basis:

• Get into the habit of running Disk Defragmenter.
• De-clutter your hard drive. Uninstall programs that you don't use but use the associated uninstall method for each program ... don't simply delete the folder.
• Run Scan Disk to check for errors on your hard drive. Call an expert:
• Remove programs from the Start menu that you don't need to have running.
• Check and clean your Registry.
• Install the latest drivers for your hardware.

The actions above are listed for information only.

Some of the items listed above may be outside the capability of a lot of computer users, do not attempt any of the above unless you are confident in your knowledge of the steps involved.

Call the experts if your PC is not performing properly .... I.T.tracservices on 0844 8849795

Useful sites for instructions to carry out some of the above tasks