6 Steps To A Faster PC

By Michael Jones

Below are six simple things that you can do to work faster and more securely on your Computer. Take just 2 minutes to consider these tips:

1. Get into the habit of using Windows keyboard shortcuts. If you slowly introduce two or three shortcuts you will find your productivity increasing noticably. Windows + M minimizes all open windows instantly. Windows + Tab cycles through open programs if youre using Vista. If you need to leave your desk keep prying eyes out of your Pc by locking the session (Windows + L).

2. Another repetative timewaster in Windows is the delete confirmation message. It is one of the most annoying and unnecessary prompts you will encounter. In the course of an average computing month you will have told Windows hundreds of times that yes, you really do want to delete that file! To switch off this nag, right click on the Recycle Bin and untick the option to display the delete confirmation dialog.

3. Run Windows defragmenter at regular intervals to keep hard disk performance in good shape.The defragmenter does this by physically organizing the contents of the disk to store the pieces of each file close together on the hard drive. This results in noticably faster performance. Do a defrag once a month, or better still schedule this task (you can do this if you're using Vista).

4.Update Windows regularly. Computer hackers are constantly finding new ways to attack your computer with viruses & other malware. Microsoft continually searches for security vulnerabilities in their software and provides security updates to fix them. The security fixes are available, but computer users don't get them installed quickly enough. Head into your Control Panel & turn on Automatic Updates right away. An added advantage of activating Automatic Updates is that Microsoft provides other software updates that make your computer run better and faster. For example, an update may fix an issue with a hardware device, improve the performance of your computer, or deliver improved functionality.

5.Set effective passwords for all user accounts on your PC. Dont forget the Administrator account. The best way to protect yourself from malicious hackers is to effectively password protect all your user accounts. An effective password will have at least seven characters & will contain a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.

6. Install strong Antivirus Software. Do some research to satisfy yourself as to an effective antivirus software as some programs are decidedly mediocre. A good antivirus will form the mainstay of your computer's security while on the internet. You can increase your security further with strong antispyware protection. A few years ago you might have got away with neglecting this issue, but certainly not today. Weak security will be quickly exploited by the latest rogues, trojans and rootkits.

Remember, you computer is like a pet, its not just for Christmas. You have to look after it. Take some action now! - 30201

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here