Community Newsletter: Q&A: How do I get my PC back in shape?
- 5/10/07 8:43 PM
spring cleaning computer
by Murali penumarthy - 5/5/07 12:05 PM In reply to: Yo Sandy, by phillyserbHi Phillyserb,
Can you kindly tell me how you perform the steps you mentioned in your post. Thanks
Regards,
Murali
Compuer cleaning
by woodsman444 - 4/28/07 7:36 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
There is one programme that I have found to be very usefull It is mostly a maitinence tool, It is a programme called Reg cure it is made by Parento logic it will clean your registry and make your computer run better without doing damage elsewhere in your PC,It is not as aggressive as some others of its like.
Time to defrag and if that does not work, rebuild the system
by ian_from_bim - 4/28/07 7:40 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
First.... check to see how much memory you have - I am sure it is more than 200 meg! Right click on MY COMPUTER icon, choose PROPERTIES from the bottom of the list and it will say on that page. You may want to consider upgrading your memory to 512 meg or 1 gig if you can afford it, and if your motherboard can support it.
Once you have checked that, then lets look at other reasons that windows slows down.
Over time, with installing and uninstalling programs, moving and deleting files and so on, the hard drive gets fragmented - bits of any one file are stored all over the place instead of being in a continuous line (as it were). You can fix this by running a SCAN DISK on your hard drive.
To do this from the START BUTTON choose PROGRAMS then ACCESSORIES and finally SYSTEM TOOLS. In that menu you will see an option for DISK DEFRAGMENTER. Running this is step one.
After defragging your hard drive - which can take quite some time depending on how big your drive is, you should notice some improvement in the speed of your system. If you do not then it maybe time to rebuild the system from scratch.
Hope that this puts you on the right track
Ian
Cleaning up your Computer
by billsi44 - 4/28/07 7:57 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Sandy,You definitely need more memory. You can never be too thin, too rich, or have too much memory. I would first bring up your system specs. If you want the complete picture download the free Belarc Advisor which will give you a complete picture of your system in moments. Then buy either 512MB or IGB of memory which is easily installed in one of your memory slots. Run clean disc and defrag and your anti virus programs and you should then be all cleaned up with a fast running computer again. Best Wishes, Bill
Computer maintenance
by jpachner - 4/28/07 8:19 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
I am not a computer expect, but the following really helps to improve my computer when it gets sluggish. It may take some time at first but if you do it thoroughly once, tweaking every-so-often doesn't take long at all... and the effect on my computer has been notable.
1) Clean your temporary files and unnecessary cookes from internet explorer.
internet explorer -> tools -> internet options -> browing history-> and choose either "delete" or settings.
Follow this up with start -> run -> %temp% to bring up the folder with temporary files. delete all that you can.
2) Run disk cleanup
start -> all programs -> accessories -> system tools -> disk cleanup
3) Run disk defragmenter. First have it "analyze" and if necessary run the defragmenter program. This can take a while, so do it when you don't need the computer.
start -> all programs -> accessories -> system tools -> disk defragmenter
4) Install and run a registry cleaner program
5) Download and run an adware cleaner (spybot or ad-aware, both of which are free)
I hope this was helpful!
Spring Cleaning
by lectrician - 4/28/07 8:23 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Ok lets get started cleaning.
First install CleanUp. http://www.stevengould.org/software/cleanup/ It's free. This program has been around a long time and Mr. Gould has upgraded it several times. So if you like it throw the man a bone by hitting the donate button.
Second install Ad-Aware. http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad-aware_se_personal.php Ad-Aware personal is free. Another program that has been around a long time. You have to update weekly or before you run the program. No big deal start the program and hit the update button. The people at Lavasoft have upgraded this program several times. Check out the other programs at the site you might find one that better suits your needs.
Third install Spybot S&D
http://www.spybot.info/ Spybot S&D is free. Another program that has been around a long time. You have to update weekly or before you run the program. Start the program and hit the search for updates.
Fourth (optional) install TuneUp Utilities 2007
http://www.tune-up.com/ They have a free thirty day trial version. The full version cost $40 dollars USA. The full version is well worth the price as this program can do some amazing things.
Ok lets get started cleaning.
If you have any external hard drives make sure they are connected to your computer and are turned on as the nasty little buggers like to hide there too.
First run CleanUp. This can take from a few seconds to a few minutes according to how often you run the program.
Second update and run Ad-Aware. After updating hit the start button. In the next window select perform full system scan. Then hit next. This will take some time to run through as it is checking everything loaded on your hard drive. When it's done hit next select all the boxes and hit next. When your finished close the program.
Third run Spybot S&D. This program is basically the same as Ad-Aware. I run them both because sometimes one will catch something the other one missed. Start the program and updated first by hitting the update button. After updating hit the Search & Destroy button. Now hit the check for problems button. This too will take sometime for the same reasons as Ad-Aware. When it is done select all the boxes and hit the correct problems button.
Fourth if you have installed TuneUp this will get a little involved. If not then update and run your anti virus program and skip down to the final step. If you have installed TuneUp then start the program and lets do a quick cleaning with this.
At the first window select TuneUp StartUp Manager. This will let you choose what will run in the back ground. But be very careful about what you shut off. If your not sure what to shut off then go to this link. http://www.castlecops.com/StartupList.html This is Castlecops start up list. Read the key then check the start up list from TuneUp with the start up list from Castlecops to see what should or should not be shut off.
Once you have shut off all the unneeded back ground programs close the StartUp Manager window. Next hit the Clean up & Repair button. Hit the TuneUp Disk Doctor button. Select the drives you want checked and hit next. When that is finished close that window. Next hit the TuneUp RegistyCleaner. Select full system scan and hit next. When that is done hit show errors button. Hit the start cleaning button. If a box pops up that says run again then run it again until you get the message no problems found. Close that window. At this point all the other programs in TuneUp are optional and if you want to run them then read the help files first. Close the program.
Fifth run your anti virus program. Make sure you've updated it first. When done close that program.
Finally (you thought we would never get to this point didn't you) lets run the good old disk defragmenter. Go to start, all programs, accessories, system tools and hit the disk defrag button. In that window select your main drive, usually C: drive. Now hit the Defragment button. This can take a long time but if you want your computer to run faster then it's a must. When that's done then your done. In reality this should be done at least once a month.
I hope this helps.
pc cleanup
by rajanin1 - 4/28/07 8:33 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
hello,
your pc slow,do the 3following steps,
1.disk cleanup,
2.de fragment your hard disk,
3.remove un wanted programmes,
also use registry cleaner,
xp tune up utilities.
bye,
v.a.rajan.......
The easy way out..
by nakarmia - 4/28/07 8:54 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
You mentioned that your computer was 2 years old, so I am assuming the main problem you are having is coming from the memory. Using trusted vendors like newegg.com, I would buy a stick of RAM and plug it in. I recommend having at least 1gb for XP (after the upgrade).
Next, it is time for you to start uninstalling everything you don't need. Systems clog up when unnecessary registry entries and low hard drive space, so I would advice you to uninstall all your unnecessary programs. Then, delete the extra media files that you don't need. Next, download free software from download.com, to clean up your system. Look for programs that clean registry entries, temporary files, and so forth. Then download antisypware/adware programs and after updating them, clean out your system once again. Spyware and Adware is one of the main reasons systems slow down. Next run DiskCleanup, and then defragment your computer. You should definitely see an increase in response time and speed of applications.
Hope this helps!
PC Spring Cleaning
by bkspeck - 4/28/07 9:13 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
The maintenance and "cleaning" of a PC is quite simple. Below is a typical order of how I "clean" a PC to restore it's performance back to where it once was. Most of the software titles mentioned can be found at Cnet's www.download.com:
1) AntiVirus: Current, updated AntiVirus software is critical to a computer's long-term performance. Any virus can put the brakes on a computer's speed, so ensure that your AntiVirus software is current and up-to-date. If you're in need of AV software, try AVG AntiVirus Free for a Home PC, or Trend-Micro for a business PC (AVG's free license only permits use on a home computer). Run a complete scan to ensure your PC is free of any and all viruses.
2) Spyware/Adware/Malware: A close second to viruses, spyware, adware and malware can also put the brakes on your computer's speed. Some AntiVirus software comes with this protection built-in (typically titled "Internet Security"). If you're in need of software, checkout SpyBot, AdAware and SpywareBlaster.
3) Take out the Trash: No, not the Recycle Bin, but all of the unneeded and unneccesary files that have accumulated on your hard drive. CCleaner does a great job of finding and removing these files. I recommend unchecking three options: Windows tab, Internet Explorer, Cookies; Windows tab, System, Empty Recycle Bin; and Applications tab, Firefox/Mozilla, Cookies (if installed). Cookies are best monitored by a program such as SpyBot, not deleted in their entirety. Most cookies are good cookies! I believe that your Recycle Bin should be manually emptied, for what if there's an important file in there that was accidentally deleted?
4) Defragment the Hard Drive: To restore your computer's performance to like it was when new, keep your hard drive defragmented! Windows ships with a defragmenter, which does a good job if you're on a budget (Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Disk Defragmenter). For trouble free "set it and forget it" defragmenting, you'll need to purchase Norton's Speed Disk (included in Norton Utilities and SystemWorks) or Executive software's DiskKeeper. I run DiskKeeper, and have it set to monitor my hard drives for optimum performance. The defrag routines run at night and/or in the background automatically, keeping my computer performing like a champ!
5) Memory: Your post mentioned that you THINK you have 200 MB or memory. Most likely it is 256 MB of memory. Memory is available in 256 MB, 512 MB, and 1 GB chips. I recommend that your memory be at least 512 MB to run Windows XP smoothly. Don't fret: Memory is inexpensive and very easy to install! A typical 512 MB chip costs around $45 - $60 for a desktop model. Some desktops and all laptops will cost more.
I hope this helps you complete your "Spring Cleaning" chores. Hopefully, your 2008 cleaning won't include your computer (other than dusting), because you've followed these simple maintenance steps all year long!
Sincerely,
Brian K Speck
Speck Consulting & Training
Easy as 1-2-3-4
by kailasa108 - 4/28/07 10:23 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
It's pretty simple, actually, to get a Windows-based system back up to its original speed and keep it there. The four major reasons for the gradual reduction in system speed are 1) registry problems; 2) excess Windows file clutter; 3) file fragmentation, and 4)spyware - software that uses your computer to provide information and/or resources to third-parties (legal and otherwise).
How easy you make the "spring cleaning" task depends on how good a job you want done, and, therefore, how much you are willing to spend to do it.
(Before I get into the "hows" of this - let me say, I have no personal stake in any of the software products I mention here. These are just my recommendations after years of usage. (I test software now as a hobby - I'm a retired software analyst.)
1. Windows comes with its own file cleaner and defragger. They work reasonably well, and you can schedule them to run regularly. You can find out how to use them by accessing your Windows help files in the "Help and Support" function of the system. If you want something better, that’s free, try file cleaner CCleaner (www.ccleaner.com) and Iobit’s SmartDefrag (www.iobit.com). IF you don’t mind paying about US$30 per program – you can get the best: SuperWin’s A1Click Ultra PC Cleaner (www.superwin.com) and Raxco’s PerfectDisk (www.raxco.com).
2. Windows does not have a registry cleaner. There is one included with CCleaner, but it’s a tad on the “light” side. Better yet, is the free EasyCleaner (http://personal.inet.fi/business/toniarts/ecleane.htm) that also has file cleaning functions and duplicate file finders.) For the best, you can buy SuperWin’s RegVac (www.regvac.com) or AMUST’s Registry Cleaner (www.amustsoft.com).
3. Volumes have been written about spyware removers lately. What I have found is that these programs not only have to clean the computer, they have to have a real-time monitor to really provide protection. Many people rave about the free Spybot (www.safer-networking.org) or Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware (www.lavasoft.com), but neither of these have a real-time monitor. Try the free Spyware Terminator instead. (www.spywareterminator.com) It even has a pretty decent anti-intrusion system (HIPS) built-in as well. For the best, you can buy AVG’s Anti-Spyware (www.grisoft.com) or Spyware Doctor (www.pctools.com). However, I find that the Doctor slows most older computers (Pentium 4 or older) down too much for the average user.
If you are the “set-it-and-forget-it kind of person”, I will also recommend two “suites” of products, that contain just about everything you need. One is free, Iobit’s Advanced WindowsCare (www.iobit.com), but they also have a paid version – AWC Pro, which is very nice. The king of “fix it all” is still Iolo’s System Mechanic. Their version 6 was a “clumsy” improvement over version 5, but the new version 7 is quite nice.
Take your pick and have at it!
Use CCleaner
by samlopez - 4/28/07 11:11 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Run check disk and defrag on your computer.
Open My Computer Right Click C: drive go to properties first run clean disk then tools for check disk and defrag.
Next remove any unnecessay startup programs
You can run msconfig go to startup tab to remove them. **
Go to start -> run -> type msconfig
** Check on the internet for each process before removing them
Now run ccleaner you can download at: http://www.ccleaner.com/download/
Orginally called crap cleaner. (Freeware)
It is simple to use but you may have to reset some saved custom settings like McAfee etc.
It will remove unused or unnecessary files and make your computer run faster.
Download Ad-Aware and spybot and run daily or after you been on the internet.
There are also free registry cleaners. check CNets downloads.
Good Luck.
Slow computer
by MikeH40 - 4/28/07 11:36 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
About a year ago my 3 year old DELL with Windows XP also started to get very slow. I made it much faster by switching off my modem and deactivating Norton Antivirus. Of course that won't speed up the start-up time or getting my email or surfing the net but it sure speeds up Pinnacle Studio and PhotoShop. I have the 2005 version of Norton with the latest virus signatures and upgrades as supplied by Norton.
Happy Spring Cleaning!
by jskrenes - 4/28/07 11:46 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Sandy,
Since you haven't been keeping up on things, you might have a bit of work to do, but fear not, many of these things are nearly automatic. You can start one of these processes (like a disk defragment) and clean the garage while the computer does its work. So here is a step-by-step set of instructions on how to clean up your computer and keep it clean. Items marked with asterisks are ones that may require some time, so you can do other work while the computer goes.
*1. Do a windows update. Either select this from your start menu, or go to windowsupdate.microsoft.com and select at least the required or critical updates. If you haven't done this since you got your computer or for a long time, you may have to run several updates before your computer is fully updated. You may also want to select some optional updates to get the newest versions of Internet Explorer or other Windows programs (I myself like the new media player).
*2. Complete a disk cleanup. Go to Start->settings->control panel->performance and maintenance and select "free up space on your hard disk." Select every box that you want deleted. This will delete a lot of temporary files from web browsing and other uses. This also can take some time if you haven't done it in a while.
*3. Defragment your hard drive. Follow the same steps as #2 but select "Rearrange items on your hard disk to make programs run faster." Then select "defragment." This also is pretty time-consuming, so let your computer do the work.
*4. Install and run a spyware removal program. I recommend Ad-Aware SE, which you can find at www.download.com. You can use other spyware programs like Spybot or Spyware blaster, and you can combine multiple spyware programs if you wish (many of these programs are free). If you're using Ad-Aware for the first time, run the "update defenitions" application and then select "full system scan." The smart scan doesn't take as long, but do the full one first.
*5. Install and run an anti-virus program. www.download.com has free programs like avast, or AVG free (which I use). Remember though, that removing a virus doesn't always entirely clean up the mess the virus made. Sometimes there is no other option than to reimage the entire hard drive, though that's a whole other topic.
6. Remove unwanted programs. Go to start->Control Panel->add/remove programs. Uninstall any unwanted programs. If you've never done this, you probably have some trial prgrams that came preinstalled on your computer that you can remove.
7. Run a registry cleanup. Abexo is a free registry cleaner from download.com, though I use Registry Mechanic ($29.99). Registry cleaners help programs run faster and reduce error messages. This might take a bit of time to run, though not nearly as long as a virus scan or disk defragment.
8. Create a system restore point. Once you are done getting your computer into tip-top shape, you want to create a restore point so that if anything happens you can revert to this setup. Go to Start->settings->control pane->performance and maintenance, and on the left column is an icon for system restore. Click this and follow the steps to create a restore point.
9. You may want to edit the programs that run at startup. If you have a lot of programs like quicktime or MSN messenger that automatically run at startup and you want to decrease your startup time and increase your processing speed, you can delete certain programs from your startup settings. Click start->run and type REGEDIT in the run field and hit enter. Then go to one of these two registry locations: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run or HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce and delete the program from the registry. Keep in mind that deleting certain programs from this registry list can cause serious errors, so only do this if you're comfortable modifying your computer and you know which specific programs you want to delete from your startup registry.
Happy spring cleaning!
re vista delete
by net surfer boy - 4/28/07 11:54 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
hi i found that it was easy to convert back to xp what i done was the i suppose the long way round,but i think the only way
i got window washer on down load fron cnet got the boot up section and made a boot window washer after this i formatted vista and reverted to xp.
but now i have reverted to vista after once again the window washer and found that i have no problems with vista,it takes all my old programs and hardware except norton so i bought vista norton from e.bay now i am very happy with vista
cliff
Spring Cleaning
by DocPC18 - 4/28/07 11:57 AM In reply to: How do I get my PC back in shape? by Lee Koo (ADMIN)
Spring is a great time to clean out the gunk from your PC and get it up and running like it was when you first took it home.
First off - Memory. Memory is not expensive, unless it's RDRAM and easy to install. Buy the most your PC can handle. If you have a small hard drive buy a bigger one and search online for a video card with at least 128mb of ram for your machine if your using one with 64mb or less. These three parts will definatly perk up your PC.
Now, it's time to backup your files,then open up the box and clean out all the dust with some compressed air. Be careful around the cpu and clean the gunk off the fan.
Now, put in the new parts and format the hard drive, load XP and all the drivers. Then load your programs like office and anything else that you definatly need, not the junk. Load a good virus program and all the Microsoft updates, Run a disk cleanup, defrag the hard drive, go in msconfig and uncheck the programs you don't need at start up.
Boot the computer, sit back and say "Welcome Home" to your new revitalized PC.
| Forum legend: | |
 |
Locked thread |
 |
Moderator |
 |
CNET staff |
 |
Samsung staff |
 |
Norton Authorized Support team |
 |
AVG staff |
 |
Windows Outreach team |
 |
Dell staff |
 |
Intel staff |
