By J. Charles
Thomas
The
Computer Informer
Error messages, computer crashes, slow performance, poorly
written software that can damage the operating system,
software that drain resources and cause memory leak, outdated
or corrupted drivers, improper TCP/IP configuration, hardware
conflicts and fragmented hard drives can make your computer
experience a frustrating one. There are certain things
that are beyond your control, but there are things that
you can do right now to improve the performance of your
computer. Here are 7 valuable tips that can greatly improve
the performance of your computer.
1. Delete Unnecessary Files
As you surf the Internet, the computer stores certain
pages, logos and graphic files on your hard drive. When
you open your favorite web pages, the computer uses these
temporary Internet files to reduce download times. After
a while these files build up on your hard drive and become
more of a problem than a solution. I recommend that you
delete these temporary Internet files at least once per
month. For instructions on how to delete these files (for
Internet Explorer and Netscape users) and to empty Recycle
Bin, visit http://www.computerinformer.com/samplenews.html
2. Use System Tools
Click on Start, point to Programs, point to Accessories
and then click on System Tools. ScanDisk and Disk Defragmenter
are two very important tools that EVERY computer owner
should use. The computer usually runs standard ScanDisk
after an improper shutdown. I recommend thorough ScanDisk
and then Disk Defragmenter at least once per month. To
learn how to and why you should use these Windows tools
click on http://www.computerinformer.com/samplenews.html
3. Check System Resources
Right-click the My Computer icon, left-click Properties
and then left-click Performance. The second line shows
the computer's System Resources and express it as a percentage.
If this number is less than 80% right after turning on
or restarting your computer, this means that there are
too many programs running in the background. You probably
notice that your computer is running slower and freezing
often. To see what programs are running right now, press
and hold down Ctrl, Alt and Delete. To temporarily improve
System Resources, select a program in the Close Program
box (that you don't mind turning off) and click End Task.
If you End Task on a program and you get another box with
the message "This program is not responding..."
click End Task again. (Never End Task on Explorer or Systray.)
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