By Aruna Gautam, Free Geek Toronto volunteer
If your computer is slow or freezes in between tasks frequently, it is time for you to perform some basic computer maintenance steps. A computer will last longer and be more problem-free when maintained properly. Here are three basic computer maintenance tips we recommend to maintain your computer’s performance.
One important factor in managing the performance of the computer is keeping the Operating System up to date. This also ensures you have the latest security patches and fixes.
For Windows users
To check for updates, click Start, select All Programs, and then select Windows Update. If there are any outstanding updates, click the Install Updates button. This may require a restart after updates are finished installing.
More information is available here.
For Apple Users
To check for updates, click on the Apple menu and choose About This Mac, then select Software Update.
More information is available here.
One of the most important steps in keeping your computer secure and virus-free is updating your current Anti-Virus software. Also, regularly perform a full PC virus scan to keep your computer clean.
Some of the recommended free antivirus programs are:
Periodically, clear cache and cookies from your Internet browser. This step can help improve the speed and performance of the browser and free up hard drive space. There are different browsers with different methods to clear cache and cookies, so make sure you use the method for your specific browser.
Note: Clearing your cache and cookies will log you out of websites and online services, so make sure you have your passwords saved before doing so.