- Make sure your system is set to automatically update operating system updates using the Windows Update function. That way bug fixes are sent to you as you work.
- The more programs you have set up to start automatically when you turn on your computer, the more time it will take to start up. Look in the preferences of programs that start up automatically and turn off this feature if you don't need it always available. Many programs turn this feature on as part of the installation process, so there may be programs starting up that you are unaware of. The task bar of a PC shows icons for such programs; right click them to change options.
- Sometimes it is recommended to keep at least 25 percent of your hard drive empty (for programs to store temporary files and perform other tasks). If your hard drive is way over 75 percent full, consider uninstalling programs you rarely use and moving seldom used files to another hard drive, CDs, or flash drives.
- Minimize your multitasking. It's great that you can run many program simultaneously, but this can slow down (or even crash) your computer. Only keep open the programs you are currently using.
- Restart your computer occasionally. Some people (myself included) tend to leave computers on for days at a time. Restarting it can clear out system memory. —JB
