Spring Cleaning

So everyone is cleaning their houses/apartments/computers. So here are a few tips I use when trying to refresh that 5 year old computer.

Rebuild the OS: Now often, most people are reluctant to take their computer refresh this far. But it is BY FAR, the best way to bring back your computers potential. Saving all of your videos, pictures, documents aside and reinstalling the Operating System is typically the best way to go. If your computer is 10 years old, consider a Linux distribution, otherwise stick with Windows XP (32-bit only), or try upgrading to Windows 7 (if newer than 5 years old with at minimum 1GB Ram). Rebuilding the OS will wipe the entire hard drive and make your computer act as if it were brand new again.

Remove Bloatware: Bloatware is the software that typically comes with a computer for promotional purposes. This often includes the free trial of Macafee and AOL on your desktop when you started your computer up for the first time. Uninstalling bloatware will also remove start-up items allowing your PC to load the Operating System Faster.

Modify Start-up: Click on 'Start' and then 'Run'. Now type "msconfig" without quotes. A box will pop up. Click the start-up tab. Now remove items that correspond to programs you would like not to start up when Windows boots. If you are unsure of the item, then leave it be, or feel free to check the filepath to see what program it belongs too.

Clean the Registry and Temp Files: Download and run CCleaner , possibly the best PC maintenance tool I've ever used.

Check your Virtual memory: Virtual memory is used by your computer when regular physical memory comes in short supply. Right click on My Computer, click Advanced, click performance, click Settings, click Advanced, click Virtual Memory. I usually set a minimum of around 1024MB and a max of around 2048MB. Older PCs tend to benefit more from Virtual Memory than newer ones.

Upgrade Hardware: I would typically ask someone with a general knowledge of PC components before attempting this one. Purchasing upgrades can get confusing if you do not have a general knowledge of the parts. The most basic upgrades include RAM and possibly a processor upgrade.

Malware Checking: Run an anti-virus check, also consider a Spyware tool. I recommend Advanced Spyware Remover. Its free and very fast.


Defragmentation: Under 'Start', click 'Programs', then 'Accessories', then 'System Tools' then Defragmentation. Run the the defrag on your Hard drive, typically the 'C' drive.

Dust: Go to your local PC or Office Supply store and buy a can of compressed air. Blow out all of that dust!!! (inside and out) Do NOT turn the can upside down when you spray however. Do this in a well ventilated area as it can cause asphyxiation if you breath in too much. Wipe down keyboards, blow out crumbs, clean up the case with a wet paper towel.

Enjoy your computer for another couple of years!!!!