Computer cleaning tips :)

Okay, so I said that I would share my computer cleaning and maintenance tips so here they are. These are the things that I do to keep my computer clean. Using them is up to you and please be careful. If your computer has a virus or other problem this may not fix it. This is just preventative care tips that you can use at your own discretion. In other words if you accidentally fry your computer, well, it's on you so be careful.

 

First thing I like to do is clean the inside of my computer. It sounds like a daunting task, but it's really easy. You're going to need two things for this, a small Philips screwdriver and a can of dust remover, can of air, that you can find at Walmart for under five bucks.

Shut down your computer. Then, now this is important, unplug your computer. Remove every external device and make sure your computer is not hooked up to a power source. 

Next, using your handy screwdriver find the two screws on the back side holding the side panel on your computer tower. Make sure it's the two screws for the side. Once you remove them slide the side panel off and voila you have access to the computer tower. 

If you've had your computer for a while you'll probably find plenty of dust and maybe a tiny spider web or two. Attach the tiny straw to your can of air and gently begin to spray the dust and webs out of your computer. Do not pull on any wires and of course read the instructions on the can before you begin. Definitely focus on the fans, those cool your system and if they're covered with dust they don't work as well. Once I'm done with the inside I like to go around the computer and do the same for the outside.

Once that is done return the side panel to the tower and reattach with the screws. Reattach all your wires and devices. 

Other ways to clean your computer and help it work faster:

1. De-fragmenting your computer. This is easy and can be set on a schedule. It removes broken pieces of old files, cleans up the space and makes it easier for your computer to find information faster.

2. Disc Cleanup, found under accessories. This frees up space and gets rid of temporary files.

3. Go to Majorgeeks.com and you can find free ware. Ad-Aware is a decent spyware remover, but I prefer Super anti spyware remover. Again, this is your choice. Make sure you read everything before you download it and follow directions.

4. Clean your search history.

5. Check your start up menu. If you have programs running in the background that cuts into your computer's ability to do its job quickly. 

6. Make sure your software is up to date and if possible check for updates. 

Again, this is just the stuff that I do to take care of my computer. If your computer is running slow and you take it to a tech this is what they will do and charge you a small fortune. They might suggest that you add RAM, but you can do that on your own as well with a little research. Whatever you do is your choice, I'm just sharing what I do :)