Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Computers: Tune-Up

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Keeping Your Computer
Tuned Up

In the process of running your computer, you have probably noticed that it becomes slower . . . . . . and slower and slower yet. Periodic maintenance of your computer will keep it running at good speeds. We use Norton System Works, which includes automatic displays to warn when certain maintenance procedures should be run. The program is available through Symantec Corporation.

However, much of what is involved in the Symantec modules can be done through your Microsoft Windows operating system. You can even schedule many of the maintenance programs, by using the Scheduler. Start; Programs; Accessories; System Tools; Scheduled Tasks.

The Scheduled Task screen shows the option to Add Scheduled Task. The walk through is quite simple, but we recommend you only add one scheduled task at a time and give it a chance to automatically run before adding a new one. We also recommend that you only run tasks that you understand. Therefore, it is a good idea to start your maintenance by doing it manually. You will feel more comfortable about what you are doing.

To manually eliminate unnecessary files:

On the desktop, double click "My Computer." Right click on the local drive. Click properties. On the general tab, click on "Disk Cleanup." Or you can go through, Start; Programs; Accessories; Disk Cleanup. It's just another road that leads to Rome.

To defrag your hard disk drive:

As you open and close programs, the disk drive becomes fragmented, which can cause programs to operate at slower speeds. "Defragging" the hard disk drive on a regular basis is very beneficial. If it is the first time you have defragged, you might find that the process is very long. However, the more often you do it, the less time it will take. To defrag your hard disk drive, click Start; Programs; Accessories; Disk Defragmenter. You might want to "show legend" and watch the process. It can give you understanding as to how the files are organized on the hard disk drive.

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