1. Back-up your data:
Always create back-ups of every bit of important information you store. There are many different ways of going about it. The simplest, fastest and cheapest involves burning your information to a blank CD or DVD, take a backup with CD/DVD writer.
2. Passwords:
While using your computer, the Internet or installing software, you may need to remember many different passwords. It's important to not only keep track of all passwords, but keep them secure. The best way to do this is to use a mixture of words and numbers you are likely to remember, such as your phone number and street name. They key, though, is that no one else should be able to work it out. U can use "Remember me" /"Remember username & password"option which pops up when surfing the internet using Browsers like firefox or Opera if u r the only person accesing the PC or else write somewhere so that u rememeber in case u forget.
3. Maintain up-to-date virus definition: It is vital that you have a very good anti-virus programme (AVG, Norton Anti-Virus and MacAfee etc..) and keep it up-to-date. Most anti-virus programmes have an automatic 'update/download' option. Selecting this will keep your virus-checker up to date and prevent your system from being infected by those dangerous viruses. Choose AVG as it does not maintain log files of users,so it the safest of all by far.
Read my tips on virus prevention here
4. KeepDefragging your files regularly: To help your computer run faster, you may need to let it organise where the files are physically stored on your hard drive. This is called defragmenting or 'defragging.'
5. Clear old cache files: Deleting temporary files used by Internet Explorer when viewing Web sites is a good way to free up space on your hard drive.
6. Keep the PC clean: Dust is the enemy of your PC and can cause major problems if left unchecked. Make use vacuum cleaner to keep your computer dust-free ans use it regularly.
7. Changing start-up programmes using msconfig: Most programs try to gain an entry into the start-up programmes list. To remove unwanted programmes, use the run command (click on Start to get there) and type MSCONFIG. This will bring up a small program allowing you to configure the way your computer loads. In the last tab of the window, you will have the option to disable/enable startup programmes. Be careful to disable only programmes that you understand, otherwise you may render your computer unusable.
8. Disable anti-virus software: Make sure your anti-virus software is disabled when loading new software programs in order to avoid a conflict.
9. The latest drivers: Always check the manufacturer's Web site before installing new software. Sometimes disks bundled with a peripheral device, such as a printer, have old software. Save the file at an appropriate destination (the desktop is a good place). Double click on the file and install the software. Now connect your device. The best way to install the hardware is to connect the device to the computer and let Windows recognise it. If there are any problems or Windows does not start to recognise the hardware, make sure the device is plugged into the correct slot and the power is connected.Also keep updating wherever possible.
10. Stand-by mode: Place your PC in standby mode to save power if you are going to leave it turned on for any length of time. (a) Open 'power options' in the control panel. (b) On the 'advanced' tab, under 'when I press the power button on my computer', click 'standby'. You can also put your computer on standby by clicking 'start', clicking 'turn off computer', and then clicking 'stand by.'
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