Evan's Computer Recommendations

Slow Computer


The suggestions below should be completed in the order shown


1. MS Config
When Windows starts up, it also starts a various number of "other" programs...like McAfee, sound drivers, video drivers, etc. Some of these you want, but others, you may not want...like AOL IM, advertising, pop-ups, etc.

Microsoft (MS) provides a program named msconfig that can be used to turnoff many of the unwanted programs.

This is usually the most important and sometimes the only program needed to "clean up" a computer. This is a must do!!!

To run MSConfig, go to Start/Run and type in "msconfig" and hit OK. Notes:

  • Select the starup tab.
  • Uncheck those programs you do not want to startup with Windows.
  • Hint...most programs you should leave are in the Windows\Systems directory. All others, can!
  • Drag the "command" border over for better viewing of the file locations.
  • You don't have to reboot afterwards...it's just that you can see the effect better if you do.

    In XP, the only programs I leave running are the Antivirus and Wireless...all others are history.

    If you don't know what a program is, Google it.

    If something doesn't work on boot up, you can always go back and add that item back that seems like it's it.

    If you feel daring, also look under the "Services" tab to knock out some services (still just a program) that are starting up. Make sure you check the box at the bottom that says to not show all Microsoft programs!



    2. Virus Protection
    Viruses are programs that run on your computer that you don't want to run on your computer that cause damage to your computer (or you) somehow.

    To get rid of viruses, install either McAfee or Norton's programs.

    Both these programs costs $40 or so each year. Be sure to get just the antivirus version, not the Internet version.

    Notes:

  • After installation, be sure to download ALL the current virus definition updates.
  • Make sure that automatic update is set for future virus definition updates.
  • If you haven't done it in awhile, it might be a good idea to have the program scan your entire hard drive to look for virus files.
  • Make sure the program is set for automatic file scanning.

    However, there is a free antivirus program that I now have good experience with that seems to work well...AVG. You can download it at:

    free.avg.com


    3. Windows Update
    When MS releases an operating system (OS) like XP, much testing usually takes place to assure its viability. But, as time goes by, vulnerabilities are found and exploited. To counter this, MS releases patches to correct the OS in the form of updates. Some of these updates are classified as "critical."

    All critical updates must be downloaded and installed!!!!

    To get the Automatic Updates working, look in the Control Panel for "Automatic Updates." Either set it for a time very day that you know the computer will be turned on, or you can do what I do, set it to download the updates then notify me they're ready to be installed (via a gold shield on the right side of the task bar).

    In XP, if "Automatic Updates" isn't in the Control Panel, you're running a really old version of XP and REALLY need to do updates. For that, use Internet Explorer and go to Tools/Windows Updates...and follow the process.




    This is all I have for now for cleaning up your computer and keeping it in tip-top shape. As you use your computer, you'll continue to accumulate more unwanted programs. I run MSConfig almost weekly.

    I rarely run Spybot and Ad-Aware anymore. MS-Config seems to be enough.

    Good luck.....


    • This page last updated 2-27-10