by Gourab Modak

Created on: December 29, 2010   Last Updated: January 02, 2011

Sometimes Windows can be a good friend and work for you, while other times, it can act as if it's on strike. XP just happens to be a part of the Windows saga. While at some times, it may be the fastest operating system around, it might crash right when you thought things couldn't get any worse.

However, Windows XP is designed to work for you, but only if you make sure that your computer is healthy. To keep Windows working for you during the entire lifetime of your computer, it is important to do routine maintenance on your computer. Here are ten things you should do if you want Windows XP to work for your computer as long as it can.

1. Download all necessary updates to the system- There’s a reason why Windows Update is included with Windows: To keep the operating system updated. Updates for Windows XP are beneficial to your system and keep your system running. Updates like Service Packs, anti-malware, and patches not only keep your system up to date, but also safe and secure by stopping hackers from taking over your system.

2. Get Rid of Unnecessary Visual Effects- The more visual effects you have, the slower your computer will be. It’s as simple as that. Even if you have enough system resources, visual effects will slow down your computer if you overstrain it. This also helps speed up your computer if it slowed down over time. an article on how to do that.

3. Clean the recycle bin every month- The recycle bin does fill up quickly, doesn’t it? Before you know it, the recycle bin holds three gigabytes of not-needed files. These files can slow down your system, and take up precious space. This is why your recycle bin needs to at least be managed if not cleaned very often.

4. Use Disk Cleanup- Disk Cleanup is a very handy program bundled with windows that helps you get rid of unnecessary files in just a few clicks. Use it every four or five months to get rid of all the temporary files, cached websites, and also to clean the recycle bin in case you forgot.

5. Get and keep your antivirus software updated- Antivirus software is perhaps your biggest friend when it comes to making Windows work for you. Getting attacked by a virus undoubtedly can cripple your system. Make sure you have at least a free antivirus, like AVG antivirus, or avast! Antivirus downloaded onto your system. Also make sure to keep your antivirus program updated. Without an updated antivirus program, your system still has the ability to get hit by a new type of virus.

6. Get rid

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