It's National Clean Out Your Computer Day

Check For, and Clean Up, Disk Errors

As you install or uninstall software or if your computer crashes or there is a power outage which causes your computer to shut down unexpectedly, this can cause errors. Use the Disk Check program to identify and fix these errors. Simply right-click on the drive you wish to check and select Check for Errors. If errors are found, the program will provide details of the trouble found and options to fix the errors.

Go To: Start → Computer → right-click on the drive → Check for Errors

Remove Temporary Files

Your computer stores information from web pages you have visited such as the website URL address and any information you may have entered at the site such as usernames and passwords. Over time, the accumulation of this information can slow your machine down. You can remove these files through a fairly quick Disc Cleanup scan.

Go To: Start → All Programs → Accessories → System Tools → Disc Cleanup

Keep Your Anti-Virus Software Up-To-Date

Anti-Virus and Firewall protection are very important to make sure your computer is free of viruses which should help keep your computer running in tip-top shape. To check this, open the specific Anti-virus program you have installed and select the available options to scan your computer and to check for any updates. After performing this scan and any needed updates, be sure to set a reoccurring automatic virus scan for your computer before you close the program. Generally, it is recommended to scan your computer weekly during a time when the computer is ON but may not be in use, such as overnight.

Go To: Start → All Programs → your anti-virus program → Scan & Update

Install All Updates, And Keep Them Current

Windows updates are released frequently to improve the performance of your computer. If updates are not installed, this may slow computer performance. Keeping your computer up to date on the latest system updates is essential to keeping your computer running smoothly, just like it did on that first day out of the box.

Go To: Start → All Programs → Windows Update

Try these tips on a weekly basis to keep your computer running as smoothly as possible.