by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: January 26, 2009

Keeping your PC clean involves several important steps. Each one has its own benefits to your computer system and the overall health of your computer.

Keep The System Free Of Dirt

This is often an overlooked procedure for many people. Clean the insides of your PC on a regular basis. If you are uncomfortable with this, take it to your local shop and have it done. Dirt and debris can clog your system and cause parts of your computer to malfunction. Video cards may overeat and fans can get clogged with dust. Try to keep your PC off the floor as it may pick up more dust this way. Your system should be clean every six to twelve months to be safe. Dust the top, sides, back and the area your computer sits on a weekly basis.

Run Anti-Virus Programs

Your PC needs a good virus program running at all times. The Internet can be dangerous for the health of your PC if you are not careful. There are numerous programs to use such as Norton Anti Virus and the free program AVG. Keep this software updated each day and you will get the most benefit from these programs. Some viruses can make your system crash. Check the news for any potential new, big virus threats. Most of these programs will also deal with ad ware and spy ware infections.

Defragment Your Drive

If you run Windows, your PC has a defragment tool. Run this tool to keep your disk drives running smoothly. Run this program at least weekly and especially after installing new software.

Use System Optimization Tools

Many companies like Norton sell system optimization tools or tune-up tools. These remove files your system no longer uses. These tools can find and fix problems before you even know they exist. They can fix registry errors, delete old program files and provide system information. These tools can also tweak and adjust your system settings to make it run faster.

Delete Internet Files

Be sure to delete Internet files on a regular basis. These files can make your web browser run slower. This procedure is easy to do within your web browser option menu.

Clean Your Personal Files

You can free up disk space by deleting your old files, videos and music from your computer. Remove these files and claim more disk space for your other more important information. If you have a lot of files you may want to purchase an external drive and store these files there.

Your computer will run faster and smoother if you use these techniques. It is not difficult it just requires a bit of routine maintenance just like a car needs.

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