The following tips and information are designed to
help you keep your computer running well, and to help you improve your
computer's security and stability. If you would like additional
information on anything mentioned here, please give us a call. For contact information, click on the "Contact Us" link on
the left-hand side of the page.
Run Scan Disk and Disk Defragmenter:
These utilities are part of every recent Windows Operating System, but they are
almost never used. Scan Disk scans your hard drive and makes sure the
file and data structures are intact and correct. If there are errors, Scan
Disk attempts to correct them. You should run these utilities at least
once every month or so, and especially if you have just installed or
uninstalled any programs or software.
Make sure you shut down properly:
When you shut down properly, you allow Windows to clean-up a lot of the 'trash'
that builds during each use. If you do not shut down properly, you risk
causing irreparable damage to your files and data. If your computer will
not shut down properly, give us a call to get it corrected before your problems
get worse.
Uninstall unneeded or unwanted software:
Many types of software have processes that run every time you start your
computer. This makes more work for your computer, and may cause it to
appear to be "ignoring you". Remove the software you do not need
to free-up your system. If you need help, give us a call.
Invest in a utility package:
A utility package, such as Norton SystemWorks provides many useful
programs. One very useful program is WinDoctor, that can scan your entire
system and registry and repair errors that are causing problems with
stability, errors, and hang-ups. Norton SystemWorks is available through
many software retailers, or by visiting www.symantec.com/product/,
and using the Browse box at the top of the page.
MAKE SURE you have anti-virus software:
If you do not ever use a CD or floppy disk, and never connect to the Internet,
then you do not need anti-virus software. Otherwise, YOU NEED IT.
Norton AntiVirus is one of the best. Make sure to keep your virus
definitions updated (the program does this automatically), and remember to renew
your subscription yearly for continued protection. Norton AntiVirus is
available through many software retailers, or by visiting www.symantec.com/product/
(use the Browse box at the top of the home page).
Add a SPAM filter to your e-mail program:
If you hate SPAM, do something about it. No, don't reply to it; that only
tells them that they have found a valid e-mail address. Use SPAM filtering
software. It takes a little effort to 'train' the software, but it is well worth
the time. One of the best, and least expensive, ones on the market is I
Hate Spam by Sunbelt Software. It is available through their website at www.sunbeltsoftware.com
(use the Products button near the top of the home page, then look under the
heading of E-mail Utilities for the I Hate Spam product).
