|
|
|
Knowledge Base Article
|
|
How To Article
|
|
Basic PC maintenance tips for Windows 95/98/Me/XP.
|
|
Crashes are not inevitable, however, performing basic maintenance on a regular basis can prevent crashes and keep your PC running smoothly. This includes checking for updates, scanning and defragging your hard drive, and other maintenance as described below. In addition to the following information, more optimization tips can be found at: http://home.comcast.net/~felispardalis/
Critical and Recommended Windows updates
Apply the critical updates for your Windows Operating System from Microsoft at: http://www.microsoft.com/ms.htm Click on Downloads and then select Windows Update from the drop down menu. Click on scan for updates. Download and install the Critical updates for your computer (at ValuSoft, we also download and install the Recommended updates as well).
Other updates
Visit your computer manufacturer's website - any updates to your computer's hardware will be listed there. Also, other devices such as your controller (joystick, wheel, etc.), your PDA, or printer may have updated drivers listed at their respective manufacturer. The updates are typically located in the Support section.
Empty Temp folder
Clean your C:\Windows\temp folder, and empty the recycle bin:
1. Right click on START.
2. Select EXPLORE.
3. Double click on the C: folder.
4. Double click on the WINDOWS folder.
5. Double click on the Temp folder.
6. Delete files in this folder.
Scan Disk and defragment your hard drive
You can try to improve your computers performance by doing a Scan Disk (Disk Cleanup for XP) and Disk Defrag. Go to START / Programs / Accessories / System Tools. Select Disk Cleanup - make sure your hard drive is selected. Depending on the last time you did this - it could possibly run for up to a few hours.
Next Go to START / Programs / Accessories / System Tools. Select Disk Defrag. This will put your hard drive in logical order and repair errors. This should optimize your hard drive for best performance.
Backing up data
Backup your critical data on a regular basis. There is an old saying about PC's crashing, "it's not a matter of IF your computer will crash, but WHEN". Losing data up to your last backup is much better than losing ALL of your data.
Backup Guide
http://www.computers-internet.net/guides/backup_guide.html
Tips and Tools
http://www.dotparagon.com/resources/columns/maintain.html
Backup and Recovery for Your PC
http://pcsupport.about.com/cs/backuprecovery/
|
| Applies to Versions: |
This article applies to
How To Article All Versions |
| Patch Download: |
None |
| Article Last Updated: |
8/23/2005 11:03:50 AM |
|  |
|
|
|
|
