When regular computer maintenance doesn’t occur, you may begin to notice a decline in system performance.
Regular computer maintenance is crucial to keeping your system running smoothly, quickly, and protecting it against unwanted security threats.
In this short guide, we will review a few regular computer maintenance basics you can easily perform on your PC.
Keeps Windows Updated
For nearly two decades, Microsoft has been keeping us notified of important system updates. In fact, you may see the Windows Update icon pop up in your system tray advising you of recommended updates.
To ensure reliable and secure system performance, it is best that you install all updates Microsoft recommends. In fact, you would be wise to enable automatic updates to prevent missing anything critical.
Keep Your Security Software Updated
First thing is first… you do have spyware and antivirus programs installed, right?
If not, be sure to invest in name brand security software. This is an important step in regular computer maintenance, as malicious security threats are easier to prevent than remove.
Make sure that your security software is running at all times, especially while you’re browsing the web or using any other internet-based applications.
Most security software will include automatic updates; however, to be on the safe side, it is a good idea to double check weekly that your software is up-to-date.
Keep Your Applications Updated
Many popular software applications, such as Skype and iTunes, will issue frequent updates. Although these updates are sometimes for functional reasons, they often contain security updates, as well.
If an application prompts you to update it, do so without delay.
You may otherwise find yourself at risk for various viruses or security threats.
Uninstall Unused Applications
If you have installed an application, and you no longer use it, be sure to uninstall it. This is also a good idea for any expired demos, trials, or preloaded software that came with your PC at the time of purchase.
Regular computer maintenance is as much about protecting your system against malicious threats as it is keeping clear of clutter. Each installed application adds entries to your system registry, which can lead to performance problems over time.
Also, your web browser stores temporary files, cookies, and other content that wastes precious disk space. Be sure to clear your history and cache from time to time for optimal system performance.
Defragment Your Hard Drive
Although most of us know that regularly defragmenting a hard drive will lead to improved system speeds, most people do not do it regularly.
In some cases, your Windows operating system may automatically do this for you each week. Still, if you don’t remember manually initiating a defragmentation in recent history, you would be wise to ensure it has happened.
Defragmenting your hard drive is an important part of regular computer maintenance as it streamlines the files on your hard drive, making them quicker and easier to read and access.
If you are diligent about regularly performing updates and other computer maintenance, yet you still find your PC to be sluggish, it may be time to get a professional opinion.
Contact or call the team at Target PC Repair at (440) 725-0642 to discuss the system challenges you are experiencing.