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Regular
Computer Maintenance items...
To
keep your computer running fast and safe from viruses and
spyware requires a bit of maintenance. It is recommended the
computer owner or administrator perform the following tasks on a
weekly basis. This is especially important if you are on a
shared computer. It is a good habit to schedule a time just to
perform this maintenance.
Delete your cookies and temporary files. This will eliminate a
lot of unneeded files, remove some adware and spyware and free
up a bit of space on your computer. Learn more HERE.
Run a full system scan with Ad-Aware. (free program) Be
sure to update the definitions by "Check for updates
now". The internet can be a dark and dreary place behind
the scenes, and a lot of it sticks to your computer. Read more HERE.
Run a full system scan with Spybot Search and Destroy. (free
program) Be sure to "Search for Updates" and
download them. Spybot sometimes finds malicious files that
Ad-Aware misses. This might seem like overkill, but it can
prevent popups and keep your computer running fast as new! Read
more HERE.
Update the virus definitions on your anti-virus program and run
a full system scan. Even if your anti-virus program updates
itself, it is wise to update it manually every now and then. You
can get a good FREE anti-virus program HERE.
Check for updates from Microsoft. To do this with XP, click on
"Start", then "Control Panel". Click on
"Security Center". In the left column under
"Resources", click on "Check for the latest
updates from Windows Update". Click the "Express
Install" button and follow the instructions.
Defragment your computer. Learn how to do this and why HERE.
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