7 steps for contracting businesses
to keep computers running like well oiled machines
To speed up your computer(s), prevent problems, and make sure everything works properly, you should:
- Run Windows updates regularly.
- Use an anti-virus program that is current.
- Use an anti-spyware program that is current.
- Remove files that plug up your computer (and clean the registry).
- Defragment your hard drive.
- Disable non-Windows pop-up blockers.
- Uninstall/do not install non-essential programs.
If you want someone to do this for you:
- contact a professional computer support company in your area OR;
- contact a reputable online service that can remotely fix most issues right over the internet.
If you want to do it yourself, here's how:
a) Use a current Windows version (XP or Vista) and Run Windows Update monthly or set it to automatic as follows:
- Open Internet Explorer.
- From the main menu bar along the top, select Tools.
- From the Tools sub-menu, click Windows Update and follow the instructions.
b) If you do not have an anti-virus program you can download AVG antivirus the number one rated free program at free.grisoft.com
- After installation, run the "updates" and then do a full system scan.
- Make sure that the automatic updates are enabled (turned on).
c) If you or others who use your computer use (or have used) music sharing programs or similar programs, many of these install hidden spyware that can cause your computer to be unstable, slow it down, and even crash.
- To prevent this, use anti-spyware programs such as SpywareBlaster and SpyBot Search & Destroy.
- You can download these free programs from www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html and
www.safer-networking.org/en/download/
- After you install these programs and each time you use them (we suggest monthly), first run their "update" options to get the latest updates.
- Use both these programs for maximum protection.
d) Clean your hard drive and operating system "registry".
- Visit www.ccleaner.com and download "CCleaner."
- It's free and works brilliantly to get rid of unneeded files that plug up your hard drive.
- It also fixes a variety of other issues/problems.
e) If you have a third-party (non-Windows) pop-up blocker disable it.
- Pop up blockers can create more problems than they solve.
- As there are many different pop up blockers available, there is no way to give you exact instructions.
- Check your pop up blocker program for details.
f) Defragment your hard disk.
- In Windows, click on the "start" menu (at the lower left of your screen),
- then click "programs",
- then click "accessories",
- then click "System tools",
- then click "Disk defragmenter."
- Follow the instructions.
g) Never install:
- "fun" utilities such as toolbars, screensavers, weather or joke delivery programs, etc.,
- music sharing programs,
- Unless they come from reputable sources, most of these programs are actually spyware and can cause significant problems.
h) More help: