Effective Computing Habits for Windows® Users
Working off a slow, disorganized computer can be frustrating. Unfortunately, the task of organizing it may be one of the lowest priorities on a necessary list of To-Dos. But by performing a little regular maintenance, computers will be effective and efficient for a long time.
Here are a few easy-to-follow suggestions to ensure your computer is on the right track to being a well-organized, high-performance device.
1. Keep software programs and your operating system up-to-date
Thanks to customer feedback and continued product R&D, computer programs are constantly being improved. It is recommended to check for software improvements and software updates regularly. If a program or system has an ‘auto-update’ feature, be sure it is active. By keeping your system and your software updated with the latest versions, your computers will be more resistant to crashes and virus breaches.
2. Run regular antivirus and anti-spyware scans
Download, install and keep updated antivirus and anti-spyware software. By doing so, you will prevent computers from being infected with spyware, adware, malware or other unwanted programs and files.
3. Organize your folders
Over time, files build up and get put in places on your hard drive they don’t belong. Keep your files organized and remove the clutter with an effective directory system. Directories, or folders (as they appear in a Windows or Mac environment), should be used like folders in a filing cabinet.
4. Remove redundant or unnecessary folders from your hard drive
Think about the best way to organize your folders. Create folders for files that are used for specific purposes, and name them with specific details about file content. This makes information much easier to find. Create subfolders. Use logical, easy-to-understand descriptors. Delete old or duplicate files, especially if they are old versions of newer files. If they aren’t needed, archive or delete them. Organizing your computer’s directory structure will make you more productive and effective.
5. Clean up your hard disk
Using a Disk Defragmenter can help to free up space on your hard drive and allow your computer work more efficiently. Disk Defragmenter scans hard drives and consolidates empty sections that may be scattered across the disk. Some companies prefer to run both utilities weekly, while others prefer monthly. Since they can be time-consuming processes, we recommend running them once a month.
6. Use System Restore
System Restore saves important documents, settings, and preferences, and provides a way to restore a Windows® computer back to the same state it was in before the data was lost. System Restore can be configured to create restore points daily, and whenever device drivers, automatic updates, and some applications are installed. Create a system checkpoint or a restore point when you are performing an activity that may make your computer unstable. Should there be any conflict at all, you can simply restore your computer to the point just before you began the installation.
