Like a car, your computer needs regular maintenance. Regular maintenance for your PC is extremely important and should not be overlooked. Proper maintenance can prevent many computer problems down the road which will save you time, money and probably a headache or two.

Keeping your computer updated:

A very important part of maintaining your computer is updating your Windows, anti-virus software and manufacturers updates along with a couple of weekly tasks.

  • Updating your Windows. Microsoft makes keeping your Windows updated very easy.

Here’s how:

Click on “Start” – “All Programs” – Then click on “Windows Update”

Once on the Update page, you can choose “Express” or Custom install. Express is recommended. Choosing Express will update all of the high priority updates and security patches. While on the Update page, you can also change your setting. I would recommend “Automatic Updates”. Doing so will allow Windows to automatically update your computer so you do not have to manually update your system. It also ensures that you get high priority updates in a timely manner.

  • Updating your Anti-Virus software. Most all anti-virus programs offer automatic updates.

Because anti-virus programs vary from program to program, you will have to locate your settings. Another method is manually updating your anti-virus. If you have an icon in your system tray, you can “right click” on the icon and choose “Update”. You can also open the program from the “Start” – “All Programs” “your program”. Once open, normally under “Tools” or “Help” you will find an update option.

  • Manufacturers Updates.

Most computers have a sticker located somewhere on the body that lists the serial number, model number and often times a support website address. You can also go to the website of your computers manufacturer. Locate the “support” page. Websites vary on their layout, but you should be able to locate your model number and information related to your computer. The manufacturer will list any updates (if any) that are available for your computer. Just follow their directions on the download.

  • Defragmentation

When a file is written to your hard drive, it is often stored in pieces, creating a fragmented file. Defragmentation software can organize these split-up files which can sometimes dramatically improve system performance. Windows has a built-in defragmenter. Click on “Start” – “All Programs” – “Accessories” – “System Tools” – “Disk Defragmenter”. Highlight (C:) then click on “Defragment”. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to much longer to defragment your drive, depending on how often you proform this action. It is recommended that you do this at least once a week.

  • Disk Cleanup

When you browse websites and do any activity online and offline, your computer stores information in temporary files. If these temporary files aren’t cleaned out, it can cause your computer to run slower and slower and even cause problems with how programs run. Windows has a Disk Cleanup built-in that empties these temporary files and also cleans your drive of “junk” that is not needed.

To access the Disk Cleanup Click on “Start” – “All Programs” – “Accessories” – “System Tools” – “Disk Cleanup” – choose (C:) drive then click “OK”. It is recommended that you run the Disk Cleanup at least once a week.

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