PC Maintenance Tips and Tricks
Understanding how a PC works is a fundamental necessity in order to use it effectively and efficiently. But even more important is performing ongoing computer maintenance. Carrying out regular maintenance ensures that problems do not develop and that the computer operates an optimal level. Physically, a computer does not require much effort on the part of the owner: an occasional wiping down of the case handles dust that might collect and surge protection minimizes the risk of an improper spike in the electricity entering the machine through its power cord. The main issues relating to maintenance come as a result of the operating system driving the PC. When it comes to computer maintenance, the best defense is a good offense — which in this case means regularly treating the operating system to the equivalent of a car wash. There are programs that can be purchased to this end, but they are not a necessity. This is because there are tips and tricks for maintaining the Windows operating system that can be found within Windows itself. Here are a few of these tips and tricks that can be performed as readily by a novice as an expert on the Windows operating system, regardless of which version is being used. Store Files Sensibly To keep Windows from having to work hard, store files in folders rather than having them loose on the desktop. The included “My Documents" folder is well suited for storing the majority of files that are generated through daily use. Windows Update Windows is constantly being updated and the “patches" fix ongoing problems as well as adding tweaks and improvements to the operating system. Accessing Windows Update is easy: click on “Start" followed by “All Programs" and then on “Windows Update”. After the program has listed the patches it has found (an Internet connection is obviously needed), select the “critical” updates and follow the procedure indicated. A reboot will usually be the last step. Recycle Bin Default Size The Recycle Bin, by default, keeps far too much storage space for itself. Reduce this to reclaim hard drive space. To do this, right-click on the Recycle Bin and select “Properties" from the pop-up menu. Readjust the slider to 2-3% and click “Apply" followed by “OK”. Remove Temporary Files Temporary files are saved by system processes all the time on a PC, but there is no need to keep them as they bloat the operating system and eat up hard drive space. To delete these films without worrying that something important will be affected, click the “Start" button followed by “Computer" (“My Computer" might be seen instead, depending on the version of Windows being run). Right-click the main hard drive in the window that is now on the desktop and select “Properties" from the pop-up that appears. Select “Disk Cleanup" followed by “All Users", should this also be available to select. Then uncheck any boxes that do not need to be cleaned and click “OK". Shut Down The PC Keeping the computer running non-stop can be bad for it physically in some circumstances (such as extreme heat or cold conditions), but more to the point, it is not good for the operating system which can develop problems over time. A simple shut down, followed by a few minutes’ (or overnight) rest before being turned back on will eliminate potential problems such as clogged memory, and will in no way hurt the PC. Consider doing this once a week on average.