TECHNOLOGY TIPS - TIME FOR SOME PC-CLEANING
It's that time of year again when the PC gets a little sluggish and seems to move at a snail's pace.
The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable at all with doing any of these tips, then get a professional in to do it for you. I would hate to hear that someone has completely deleted their Windows registry or any of the other files that make your PC run. Below are 5 Tips to get you started.
1. Perform a Disc Cleanup
To get to the Disc Cleanup you want to go to Start button. Select Programs, Accessories, System Tools and then Disc Cleanup. This is something that is very important to perform on your computer at least once a month to keep your computer running at optimal speed.
2. Defragment your Computer
It's a big word but nothing to be scared of. A defragment can take some time if you've never done one or you have a lot of "stuff" on your computer. Be sure to plan ahead for this. To get to the Defragment you'll need to go to the Start button, select Programs, Accessories, System Tools and Defragment.
3. Remove Spyware and Adware
If you've ever gotten any type of pop-ups, strange things happening to your Internet homepage, etc. That's spyware and adware. If you are someone who spends a considerable amount of time online or downloading from the Internet you will be more vulnerable. There are two different removal programs that you can use. (Bonus that both are free!). Ad-Aware and Spybot.
4. Uninstall old software and unused programs
This is one area where you need to be very careful. When un-installing there will be files that end in .dll or .xll that are used by more than one program. If you are unsure about these files, then be certain to consult a professional. To get started, go to the Start button, Control Panel and Add/Remove Programs. If you've downloaded any software onto your PC, then go to the Start button, Programs, name of the program and click Uninstall.
5. Get a High Speed Internet Connection
This may seem like an extremely logical suggestion for those of you who have this type of connection. For those who don't it will increase speed and make the overall experience much better. The options that will increase any type of dial-up are DSL, cable Internet connection, high speed wireless, high speed satellite Internet.
CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
