Computer Performance Tips

by David Mahler

Published on this site: April 19th, 2005 - See more articles from this month...

Introduction

In this article I will clearly spell out the most effective steps you can take in order to increase the performance of your computer and enhance your computing experience.

More Memory (RAM)

If your computer has less then 256 MB of memory you may want to consider adding more. If you don’t know how much memory you have: right click my computer, go to properties and look towards the bottom of the dialog box.

Memory is where the computer stores open files or programs in order to give the processor quick access. To put it simply more memory means more speed and stability. You can buy memory online or visit your local Best Buy where they can install it for you if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.

Defrag your computer

Imagine a filing cabinet that is out of order, you would have to look harder for your files just as a computer would when it is fragmented. Over time your computer will become fragmented. When your computer is fragmented it has to work harder to do just about anything a computer can do. Defragging your computer is essential for computer performance and stability.

Diskeeper is by far the most effective and efficient defrag program I have ever used. With Diskeeper you can defrag your computer without having to close other programs. You also have a “set it and forget it” feature that enables you to set your computer to defrag any time without having to think about defragging ever again. Most notably this defrag program gives your computer a clear performance boost.

Remove adware & spyware

If you frequently receive popups while not surfing the Web you may have excessive amounts of adware or spyware on your computer. By removing the adware and spyware you will not only receive a performance boost but you will enhance your computing experience by removing bothersome ads.

Ad-Aware and Spybot Search and Destroy are both free programs that will scan your computer for adware and spyware and allow you to remove it with ease.

Surf the Web faster

Firefox (getfirefox.com) is a new browser that is faster and more secure then Internet Explorer. With Firefox you can download and install extensions which “plug in” and give the browser more functions. For example I currently have extensions that tell me the weather and block online advertisements. Download and install this program today and replace your current browser which most likely is Internet Explorer.

David Mahler started his business (http://www.capehostpro.com) designing websites in 2002 and has since extended his business to include such services as Intranet design, database design and website copywriting.