May 06, 8:00 am
Optimizing your computer and it’s settings is a 101 course for the typical geek, however you would be surprised how many people do not even know the basics. Taking the necessary steps to take care of your computer goes beyond the reasoning of just simply increasing its performance. It extends the life of your PC and it makes it (and therefore you) happier, healthier, and able to do more!
To ensure your computer is running at it’s max capabilities, and to prevent major catastrophe’s, there are simple maintenance processes you can perform. I have listed the easiest, and most common, tweaks I could think of and linked you to various articles on how to do it yourself. Please note, I have left out more high level things you could do, as someone could severely harm their computer by messing with advanced techniques.
Clean Up your Temporary Files
Every time you visit a web page, or work on files on your computer, a temporary copy of that page/file is created for quick access and retrievel. This can be helpful at initially speeding up your browsing experience or recovering lost files. However, overtime, the temporary storage area will continue to grow and cause problems. You should clean up these temporary files, so they do not bog down your computer.
Windows XP • Windows VISTA & 7 • 
Mac
Run a Disk Check
Whenever a program or your computer crashes, errors may be created on its hard disk/drive. Over time, the errors can result in a slow performance. Fortunately, you have ways to perform scans and checks to improve function.
Windows XP • Windows VISTA & 7 • Mac
Defrag
As you add programs and files to your computer, they become spread out and “fragmented” over time. You should defrag your computer often to keep files side by side for ease of access and retrieval and decrease load times.Think of it as an overstuffed closet with haphazard clothes everywhere. Wouldn’t it be faster and easier to find that favorite retro shirt if it was coordinated with other shirts that share the same color and casual appeal?
While you can set defrag to automatically run on a scheduled time and day, some people don’t like to keep their computers running when they aren’t on it or simply prefer to do things themselves. Here is info on how to do it manually, and you will find information on how to set up an auto defrag under the one time set up section.
Windows XP • Windows VISTA & 7 • Mac: (Rarely Needed)
Limit Start Up Programs
Many programs are designed to load automatically when you start your computer. Software manufacturers often set their programs to open in the background, where you can’t see them running, so they’ll open right away when you click their icons. Anytime your install new software, the default setting normally allows it to run in the background as well.
This is helpful for programs you use a lot, but for programs you rarely or never use, this wastes precious memory and slows down the time it takes for your computer to finish loading. Decide for yourself if you use a program enough to warrant it running in the background (at least a few times a day) and disable those that don’t meet your criteria.
All Windows • Mac
Delete Unused Programs
Many manufacturers pack their new computers with software programs that you never use. People also install programs that they think they will use on their own, but never do, or only for a short time. Overtime these unused programs start to eat away precious memory, processing power, and disk space. It’s a good idea to uninstall all the programs you don’t use, or plan on using, and to open valuable memory and processes.
Windows XP • Windows VISTA & 7 • Mac
Run Virus/Spyware Program
If your computer is running slowly, one dreaded possibility is that it might be infected with a virus or spyware. If your computer is acting in an odd manner or exhibiting abnormal behavior, it’s time to run a virus/spyware check. The best way to deal with viruses is to prevent them in the first place and run scheduled checks.
Windows Best Antivirus Software • Mac Best Antivirus Software
Auto & Driver Updates
Mac and Windows both have auto update settings that should be configured (if not already) to keep your computer running its best. This is to increase your security and the functionality of your computer. With these updates come new versions of hardware drivers, but they are not always timely.
Outdated drivers could cause serious issues with your computer. You can experience everything from frequent crashes, error messages, and poor visual and audio quality. While Windows and MAC both have updates that should include drivers, with windows you may find drivers are not always up to date and you may have to do a manual install. (Mac’s
Aside from auto updating, you might want to regularly visit the support website of your computer manufacturer to see if the company has released any updates for your specific model and double check individual drivers updates, as well. You can do this manually, or install additional software to do it automatically (although it’s not a guarantee all drivers will be updated this way).
Please note, Mac users almost never have issues with keeping drivers up to date through the normal OS X update feature.
How to Configure Auto Update in Windows How to Manually Update Hardware Drivers in Windows How to Update on a Mac
Optimize Web Browser
A daily function for most people is surfing the internet. We spend so much time in this function, you should most certainly make this experience even better by optimizing your Internet browser. If you take steps to change a few browser settings, you can greatly increase performance and have fewer browser errors.
Auto Defrag
As you add programs and files to your computer, it often breaks files side by side to increase the speed of access and retrieval. However, as files are updated, your computer saves these updates on the largest space available on the hard drive, often far away from the other adjacent sectors.
The result is a fragmented file which cause slower performance because your computer must jump around pulling all of the file’s parts together. This causes a decrease in performance and can slow your computer down.
Defragging is rarely needed on a Mac, as the computer will optimizes itself. But, for Windows this should be done periodically. You should set this up as an automated process, but some people prefer to do it manually.
Windows XP • Windows VISTA & 7 • Mac
Add Memory:
Even if this isn’t a hardware guide, adding more memory to your PC is one of the best things you can do to help your computer run faster. It’s simple to do and a relatively cheap upgrade, with a big payoff!
How to Add Memory to your PC How to Install RAM in your Mac
Aside from all of these tips, it’s important to note that sometimes reviewing and changing your computing behavior can have a big impact on your PC’s performance. Look for ways to remind yourself not to bog down your own computer. Don’t keep 15 browsers open along along with your instant messenger and email and think it’s NOT going to have an effect on that game your playing. Happy trails to you and your faster computer!
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