Periodic Preventive
Computer Maintenance
AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR!!
Clean out your PC case.
Using the instructions in the owner's manual, power down your computer, unplug all cables (making note of where each is connected), place the computer case on a table or bench top, remove the cover, and using a vacuum cleaner, carefully clean the dust from the inside of the case. Take special care to ensure you get the dust that collects on the fan blades of the cooling fans.
Reload?!
Many times, over the course of a few months, users find that their system starts slowing down. Usually this is caused by various spyware, adware and other malicious software that gets installed. Nobody ever admits to installing it, so it is usually a mystery where it comes from, but that's ok. There is a solution. It will take some time and effort on your part, but it will be worth it. Your computer will be like it was when you first fired it up.
Here is what you do:
- Make a backup of all of your data. If you can remember to ALWAYS save all of your data in one place, this backup will be easy. Keep in mind, there may be other users on your computer that also save data. Also, don't forget things like your favorites, all documents, photos, and music.
- Once you have saved your data and copied it to an external media such as CDR or USB key, you can use your PC manufacturer's restore CD to return your PC to the state it was in when you purchased it. This will remove any and all adware, spyware, viruses, and other malware from your system. REMEMBER!! This will wipe out everything on your PC so if you have photos, music, documents, or other important files, MAKE SURE you have backed them up to external media, and DOUBLE CHECK to be sure you can read that backup.
- After you restore your PC, you will need to install any and all software that you use, and run updates on that software as well as the operating system. Don't forget to set up automatic updates, install antivirus software, re-install any printer drivers, etc.
Run Diagnostics
Most computer manufacturers will include a diagnostic disk or some method of running hardware diagnostics. We recommend running these diagnostics annually, or if you start experiencing strange problems. Contact your manufacturer via their support website or by phone to find out what method they provide for running diagnostics.
If any diagnostics fail, they will provide you with the type of hardware that is failing. Again, via your computer manufacturer, you can determine the correct steps - i.e., replacement or repair - to ensure your computer is returned to a working state.
