Simple steps to speeding up computer performance (for average and beginner users)

Before running any system tools or troubleshooting, you need to backup your system. This precautionary step is necessary in the event that adjusting system preferences causes hidden problems to surface, resulting in crippled system functions. Backup your files by utilizing pre-installed PC utilities such as Windows Backup (Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Backup), or by copying important data to CD or diskette. Once you've successfully safeguarded your files, you can begin performing system maintenance.

If you have ever installed software packages on your computer, then it's likely that some of these programs are not being used. Think of unused programs like unwanted food in the fridge: it occupies limited space and will eventually lead to disorder and inconvenience. Because all installations consume resources, the first step to significantly boosting system performance is to remove any unnecessary programs from your hard drive. To begin, locating your software removal tool (Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs), and review files for uninstallation.

After disposing of unneeded programs from your hard drive, your computer is left with useless Registry entries. While the Windows Registry is necessary for storing important Operating System settings and options, it can leave a trail of incorrect and obselete entries. To remove this clutter from your hard drive, run a Registry cleaning utility such as RegCleaner 4.3 or TweakNow RegCleaner 2.0.7. These user-friendly freeware tools will clear out the Windows Registry, quickly and effectively.

Now that your hard drive is squeaky clean, it's time defragment your disks and correct data errors. Why? Because over time, files will begin to disperse, or "fragment", scattering across your hard drive. When your system tries to access data, it's required to sort through multitudes of unrelated information in the process, resulting in noticeably slower access speed. In order to resolve this problem and help maintain a healthy drive, Windows comes equipped with a defragmentation tool (My Computer > right-click Local Disk > Properties / Tools > Defragment Now) and ScanDisk (Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > ScanDisk).

Because many programs are automatically configured to run on startup, you may be running unnecessary background processes. While this configuration can be beneficial, running excess startup functions will slow down system boot time, as well as overall performance. To adjust your startup preferences, run your System Configuration tool (Start > Run > Enter 'Msconfig' > Startup) and begin by identifying important startup programs, such as printers and virus tools, and removing unnecessary ones, like launch pads and help files. If this step is done properly, you will notice an immediate difference in system performance.

If your computer is not properly protected, it may be susceptible to viruses and spyware that can contaminate and destroy your hard drive. Unlike a healthy human's immune system, computers cannot fight off these malicious entities alone. In order to prevent infection, download or purchase virus and spyware removal tools, keep your scanners up-to-date, and survey your system daily.

Following the instructions outlined expressed, you should notice an immediate improvement in system performance. Because your computer will continue to wear down as time progresses, it's important to realize that a computer must be maintained in order to run properly. Clean your hard drive, correct data errors, and run virus scanners on a frequent basis. This will guarantee higher performance quality throughout your computer's life, and less difficulties in the future.

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