Tips and Tricks

Things You Can Do to Keep Your PC
Running Smoothly and Free of Viruses and Spyware.

Preventive Maintenance - The key to trouble-free computing and making your system last longer.

1. Install and run antivirus and antispyware scans regularly (weekly is best).

2. Make sure your virus and spyware programs are up to date! Update these programs weekly!

3. Run a windows cleanup utility to remove temporary files and other junk that can sap performance.

4. Defragment your hard drive monthly. This reorganizes your hard drive to keep in running efficiently, and prolong its life.

5. Run Windows Update when your system prompts you. Most of these are security updates, so these are very important.

6. Dust the inside of your computer. Get some canned air, open the side panel and blast away! This will avoid component damage from static electricity caused by dust.

Proper PC Usage and Habits - General Guidelines to Keep Your PC Healthy

1. Turning Your PC Off - Good or Bad?

Well, it's both. You shouldn't power your PC off every time you're done with it. Cycling the power can damage components because powering up a machine causes a lot of stress on the system. However, you should turn it off every now and then to clear out the memory. Once a week is good.

If you're going out of town for a few days, it's a good idea to turn it off. Another good time to shut down is during lightning storms.

There's more to come, so check back soon!