PERSONAL COMPUTER MAINTENANCE

Using Disk Cleanup to free up space on your computer

You can run Disk Cleanup to help you free up space on your hard disk. Disk Cleanup searches your hard disk, and then lists temporary files, temporary Internet files, and unnecessary program files that you can safely delete. Start Disk Cleanup by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking Disk Cleanup.

Using ScanDisk to check your hard disk for errors

You can use ScanDisk to check your hard disk for logical and physical errors. ScanDisk can then repair the damaged areas. Start ScanDisk by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking ScanDisk.

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Using Disk Defragmenter to improve computer performance

You can use Disk Defragmenter to rearrange files and unused space on your hard disk so that programs run faster. Start Disk Defragmenter by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking Disk Defragmenter.

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Using the Maintenance wizard to improve your computer's performance

You can use the Maintenance wizard to make your programs run faster, check your hard disk for problems, and free up hard disk space. By scheduling these utilities to run on a regular basis, you can make sure that your computer is performing at its best. Start the Maintenance wizard by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking Maintenance Wizard.

Your computer must be on during scheduled maintenance tasks.

Windows will attempt to activate some computers to run the scheduled Maintenance task. If your computer supports Advanced Power Management (APM) 1.2 or Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI), your tasks will attempt to run when the computer is in suspend mode.

This page links to computer maintenance pages on this site.

PC Maintenance How to use ScanDisk How to Defrag

PC Testing PC Updates

CLEANING

Keyboard Mouse Monitor System Box

A computer maintenance routine you can do yourself

When you buy a car, you know you're going to have to maintain it. The same is true for your computer. These simple tips provide an ongoing PC maintenance routine that you can do yourself.

Protect Your PC

From dangerous new viruses to stealthy software, the assaults on your computer just keep coming. Who's in charge here? You--with these 26 well-tested tools.