Things you can do to keep your computer running smoothly.

1. Empty your recycle bin, delete the deleted files from Outlook, you can also delete files in your sent folder that are no longer needed.

2. Get rid of those cookies, they can take up alot of space. Marketers also use this information to track your buying patterns.

3. You can delete your Temp files these end with *.tmp you can use F3 in Windows to search for that extension.

4. Run Microsoft ScanDisk at least once a month.

5. Run Microsoft Defrag as well to keep your files in order on your harddrive.

6. Dust, dust is horrible for your system. If you smoke, dust more often, you can purchase canned air from Radio Shack to blow out your case, do it outside.

7. Purchase system utilities software such as Noton System Works or Registry Mechanic to keep your system running optimal.

8. Consider upgrading your RAM if your system is running sluggish.

9. Upgrading your video card can improve your gaming experience.

10. A new processor can do wonders to application performance.

11. Make sure Windows is done shutting down before you power off.

12. Use Anti-Virus Software and update your Anti Virus signatures.

13. If your using DSL or Cable use a firewall.

14. Install the latest drivers for your hadrware.

Benjamin Hargis

Benjamin Hargis is a computer consultant. He publishes many articles on security and computers and provides IT services thru his company Phuture Networks.

During the day he creates ad-copy for Google and Yahoo.

His interests are computing, UNIX, Linux, Firewalls, Web Design,Information retrieval, GIS, programming, embedded systems programming, hardware. satellites, algorithims,AI, technology, electronics, learning, reading any of Tom Clancy's novels, playing chess and being on the net.

You can reach him at phuturegenius@yahoo.com