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You do not need a degree in computer science to keep your computer running smoothly. There are basic steps of computer maintenance that you can do yourself to prevent problems before they arise. Here are some basic maintenance tips:

1. Keep your startup programs to a minimum. Look in your system tray and see all the icons there (small little icons next to your system clock). Chances are, there are several programs that you don’t even know about. Configure those programs so that they do not run at startup.

2. Do not install software unless it is completely necessary. Extra software slows down your system.  Go into your control panel, select ‘Add/Remove Programs’, and remove any programs that you don’t use.

3. Run disk Cleanup. Run the disk cleanup utility by going to Start –> Programs –> Accessories–> System Toolsabout once a month.

4. Keep your startup programs to a minimum. Look in your system tray and see all the icons there (small little icons next to your system clock). Chances are, there are several programs that you don’t even know about. Configure those programs so that they do not run at startup.

4. Keeping a security software like Daily Safety Check will scan your computer daily and tell you if you have an issue and alert you if your hard drive is going bad.

Taking these simple steps will help not only the speed of your computer but expand the lifespan. This will improve the overall performance of your computer without any real expense or difficulty.

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