Good Computer Maintenance - Part One
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Other.
Good Computer Maintenance: Part One
Overview
We often view maintenance as a necessary chore to keep everything running smoothly, whether it's a car, a house, or a computer. However, with the right mindset, maintaining your PC can actually be enjoyable.
Embracing Automation
The key to enjoyable computer maintenance lies in automation. Modern operating systems like Microsoft Windows and tools such as Symantec’s Norton Internet Security allow your computer to update itself automatically. Watching technology manage itself can be quite satisfying.
Automatic Updates
Windows, known for its security vulnerabilities, requires regular updates to shield your system from potential hackers. By using Windows Update in Microsoft Internet Explorer, you can easily check for and download necessary patches.
For Windows XP Home Edition users, you can further streamline this process by setting Windows to automatically look for critical updates. Just go to the Control Panel, access System, and adjust your Automatic Updates settings to your preference.
Keeping Software Current
Don’t forget about other software on your PC. Regularly visit the manufacturers' websites to see if updates are available. A quick way to do this is through the program’s Help menu. Alternatively, VersionTracker (www.techtracker.com/products) provides a free, ad-supported service that tracks updates for over 30,000 programs on both Windows and Mac. Paid versions, starting at $24.95, can automatically notify you when updates are released.
Utilizing Utilities
Staying updated is crucial to protect your computer from threats. Norton Internet Security (www.symantec.com) offers a comprehensive suite with a firewall, antivirus, porn-blocker, spam filter, spyware detector, and pop-up ad blocker. Ensure that LiveUpdate keeps your virus definitions and components current.
While Norton SystemWorks is less effective, V Communications’ SystemSuite (www.v-com.com) offers superior tools. It helps prevent and recover from hard disk crashes, retrieve deleted files, uninstall programs, and securely shred sensitive data. Its PowerDesk file manager makes managing files quicker and easier than with Windows Explorer.
Rethinking Disk Defragmentation
With advanced hard drives and efficient operating systems, disk defragmentation is not as critical as it once was. Although organizing scattered file pieces on your hard drive isn't essential for most users, it can still be beneficial occasionally. According to PC World, defragging doesn’t significantly boost performance anymore, but can be worthwhile on occasion, especially for network file servers. Windows’ built-in tool should suffice, eliminating the need for additional software.
Conclusion
In summary, automated maintenance not only ensures your computer runs smoothly, but also frees up your time for more enjoyable activities. Embrace the process, and you might just find fun in keeping your PC in top shape.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Good Computer Maintenance - Part One.
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