How to optimize a PC
Like changing the oil in your car, routine maintenance plays a key role in terms of how your system is able to function. While a memory or SSD upgrade is the best way to improve your system's overall performance, you can further optimize its capabilities through routine maintenance. Here are nine general maintenance tips that can help improve the functionality of your system.
- Defrag your hard drive – data stored on your system will eventually become fragmented, leading to a loss in performance. Defragging your hard drive is a simple fix.
- Free up disk space – create space on your system and make it easier to find the programs and files you need.
- Remove browser plug-ins – there are lots of helpful browser plugins available. However, you may be running too many, they may be slowing down your experience, or you may find that there are some malicious plugins on your browser. Our tips will help you tidy up and streamline your plugins.
- Run a spyware or anti-virus program – Our tips will help you find the best anti-virus software for you.
- Detect and repair disk errors – Defragging your hard drive usually fixes a host of performance issues, but you may find you’re still experiencing subpar performance, if this is the case, use our guide to fix any hard disk errors.
- Delete temporary Internet files – These files make your browsing experience faster but storing lots of temporary internet files can take up a significant amount of storage. Reclaim valuable storage capacity with our guide.
- Run Windows Update – Windows updates are designed to keep your software current and your computer as safe as possible. Find out how to update with our quick guide.
- Keep your system cool – Keep your system’s temperatures in check with our 10 easy ways to keep your system cool.
- Dust your system – If your computer is running slowly or making a lot of noise, the problem could be dust. Follow our guide to cleaning your PC to dust your computer easily and safely.