how to increase your computer performance

How to increase PC performance (Tips)

There are several things that can be done to improve computer performance on Windows OS based pcs. Here are some suggestions.

Clear/Delete the files in the Temp folders

Temporary files are created every time you open files or programs. These files are not always deleted by Windows and can decrease performance over time. Here's how to get to them:

Windows 95-98 (Please upgrade)

Windows 2000 and XP

In ofder to access the Temp folder you must set your OS to show hidden files. Go to the Control Panel and double click Folder Options. Under the View Tab, select show hidden files and folders, click ok. Now go to My Computer and navigate to the following directory C:\ >Documents and settings > Profile you wish to delete files from (usually named after your user name) > Local settings>Temp this is where the files are stored. Before you delete ANY files, make sure to have all programs and files closed. Then select all files from the Temp folder and delete them.
I realize this can be done through other utilites, but this is much faster. If you can't delete a file and get and access violation, it means the file is in use. Deselect the file and try deleting the others.

Check and install all available updates
Updates from Microsoft are free for validated users, go to Microsoft's website and select Security and Updates then select Microsoft Updates home, the site will automatically detect your OS and take you to the appropiate site. Run and install all available updates, including any Office updates.

Update your Anitvirus software
This is critical to ensure your pc stays virus free. Make sure to update your definitions at least ONCE PER WEEK and run a scan ONCE A MONTH. If your subcription is expired, BUY A NEW COPY and install it! It's a MUST!

Install Antyspyware software
There are tons of free anti-spyware bundles. I recommend Spybot as it is free and works GREAT! Install and run updates and scans at least once per month.

Clear/Delete Temp Internet files
Go to the control panel and select Internet Options. Under the general tab click DELETE HISTORY then DELETE COOKIES and finally DELETE FILES this is for IE version 6.0 thru 6.5 Verion 7.0 (which I recommend you install) has these options under the General Tab then click Delete under Browsing History, when the other window opens, select delte cookies, then files and finally history.

Browsing Habits
ALWAY be aware of where you click while on the internet. The smily faces, jokes, free laptop for a stupid question are just a few of the many harmful ads that lure users into getting infected. There is no such thing as a free lunch. Don't sign up for anything unless you know it's from a legit source. Also, don't buy anything that has been e-mailed to you unsolicited. IT"S TROUBLE! DELETE THE EMAIL RIGHT AWAY.

Hardware Upgrades
As far as hardware goes, perhaps the single most important upgrade is adding RAM or Memory (not to be confused with hard drive space aka capacity) this will speed up your pc some and it's not hard to do it yourself. Jus make sure to purchase the CORRECT type of RAM for YOUR pc. Contact the manufacter if necessary.

Other upgrades could include new CPU, Hard Drive etc.. but then it may be more cost effective to purchase a new pc :-)

Good Luck.