Twelve Tips to Keep Your Computers Running Smoothly

1. Don't install software you don't need. You run a business, only install the software you need for your business. Keep your PCs clean of P2P file sharing programs, web-browser add-ons, instant messaging (unless you use it for a business tool - for most people instant messaging is just a good way to waste time),

2. When installing software don't use the "recommended" settings. Often these settings install trialware, toolbars, etc. that you don't need. Choose "advanced" settings and uncheck the installation of any "crapware" programs and components you don't want or need.

3. Turn on Microsoft Windows Update and keep your computer up-to-date. Many of these updates are security updates that are necessary to keep the bad guys out.

4. Leave your computer turned on 24x7. It will update itself in the middle of the night. In addition, electronic components last longer when left on rather than power cycling and warming up/cooling down. Make sure your monitor is set to turn off after 30 minutes or so and the PC won't use a lot of power (as much as a small light bulb).

5. Get a good anti-virus/anti-spyware program and, very important, keep it up-to-date. Kaspersky is a great choice. AVG also does a good job and doesn't slow down your PC, it's also available as a free version for home use. Stay away from the big names in Anti-Virus (the ones that spend more on advertising than fixing and standing behind their products), they are resource hogs and their technical support is horrible.

6. Run a registry cleaner on a regular basis. Here are some great ones that are available at no cost:

Ccleaner -ccleaner.com

TweakNow RegCleaner -tweaknow.com/RegCleaner.html

Both can also be downloaded from download.com and the authors accept and deserve donations for putting out such great software.

7. Uninstall unused and unwanted programs. Many of the programs that come pre-installed on PCs (a.k.a. crapware) need to be taken off. Here's a great piece of freeware to help make the process painless:

PC Decrapifier - http://www.pcdecrapifier.com/

8. Tip number 7 goes double for programs that auto start when you start your PC. See all those icons in the lower right corner near the time? Make sure you know what each one is and why you need it. If you don't then get rid of it.

9. Defragment your disk drive (Start-All Programs-Accessories-System Tools-Defragment). Set it up to run on a regular basis - at least once a month.

10. Make sure you have enough memory. Memory is cheap and can really add new life to an older PC. If you can hear your hard drive chattering away all the time then it could be a sign that you don't have enough memory. Right-click on My Computer and select Properties. The first page will show you how much memory you have. For XP you should have at least 1 GB (1024 MB). For Vista at least 2 GB (2048 MB).

11. Add a UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply). A decent one for a PC will only cost about $40-60 and can really save you from some bad crashes and unnecessary wear-and-tear due to poor power.

12. Make sure you have a hardware firewall between you and the internet. Routers, both wired and wireless, are basic firewalls. Make sure yours also has Packet Inspection (usually SPI or Stateful Packet Inspection). You may pay a few more dollars for this feature, but not much, and it's well worth it.

For more information about computers and business please visit Computers Scare Me - a Resource for Small Business at http://www.computersscareme.com

Here you will find tips on what to buy for your business, what to do when things go wrong, and how to use computers to make more money for your business.