5 Step Programme - Maintenance for your Windows PC
These things you should do to your PC on a regular basis.
1) This
may seem obvious but review the software which is installed on your
machine, if it's not in use then it's taking up diskspace so
uninstall it. (Review your software in add/remove programs in
Control Panel).
2) Internet Explorer caches pages and images from
websites that you visit. If you are using a high speed internet
connection review this cache size and modify it accordingly
-periodically
deleting the cached content. (same with your
cookies).
3) Antivirus(AV) and Spyware/Malware - Make sure your
antivirus defintion (signature) files are upto date and that you
have any relevant patches for your AV software - regularly
performing a complete system scan of your machine. Using a good
spyware detector tool (or range of tools) to sweep your machine
regularly.
4) If you are running XP then configure auto update -
you will find this in the control panel under "Security Center" or
visit
windowsupdate.microsoft.com and check for the latest patches.
5) Defragment that hard disk -
after you have cleaned up your software usage and cleared some
space on the hard disk - it's a good idea to check the hard disk
fragmentation and defragment it if necessary.Checking your hard disk for errors is also a good idea.
Microsoft recommendations
Of course you are
backing up your vital data regularly so why not add these tasks to
your backup routine and perform them all regularly. This will help
keep your machine happy and healthy.
If you are a laptop user then your laptop battery also needs to be looked after most manufacturers recommend that you completely discharge the battery once per month and perform a full charge cycle. To ensure that your battery completely discharges it is important to boot your machine into it's BIOS screen (usually F2 or delete) and leave this screen displayed until the battery is fully discharged and then recharge it.
