Save Time & Money: Keep Your PC Tuned up for Free

Tuning up Your System for Free

Microsoft Windows XP offers tools that can enhance the performance of your PC. Your PC can run slowly any time you download new software, update programs or delete unused software. The utilities offered by Windows XP, while fewer in number when compared to previous versions of Windows, are packed with more benefits. Automatic tools for tune-ups are available for free via Window’s XP. Why spend money on expensive tune-up programs offered on various websites when you can boost your PC’s performance for free?

Backing up Your System

If you need to create a backup of your computer’s information, XP offers you the ability to back up your PC on a scheduled basis. This is a wise option to select, especially if you’re prone to making software changes on your PC. Backing up your computer is simple.  All you need to do is access the Accessories folder via the Start Menu, select System Tools and perform the back up. Select the option offering to back up all information on the computer, which ultimately provides you with a floppy disc that can be used in case your computer crashes.

Check Your Hard Drive for Errors

Make sure to check your hard drives on a frequent basis for possible errors that can reduce the performance of your PC. It’s smart to perform this check periodically. In order to do so, right-click on the icon for your C Drive, choose Properties, and you’ll see a Tools area, which allows you to scan your hard drive for any errors.

Defragment Your Hard Drive

Though this step usually takes awhile, it can really affect your PC’s operating speed. This is another step that should be performed often. You can find the defragmenting tool within the Accessories folder found on the start menu, and then by selecting System Tools.

Do Away With Unused Files

Another step to improve performance is to get rid of any unused files that are taking up space on your hard drive. This tool can be found in the same area as the Disk Defragmenting tool, under the More Options tab. One example of how this helps can be demonstrated by the space you recover by deleting your past System Restore points.

Search for Spyware

Investigate for any spyware that may be lurking on your PC by downloading free and trusted programs such as Ad-aware and Spybot Search & Destroy. These programs erase any spyware on your system, preventing unwanted errors while improving your computer’s speed.

Keep Your Computer up to date

Signing up your PC for automatic updates is one of the best methods of protecting your PC. Microsoft’s website can help walk you through the steps necessary to enable automatic updates. It’s always a good idea to back up you system again after it’s been cleaned, so that you can have a clean, fresh start should your PC crash.