| Most of us are not exactly computer experts any | | | | make sure you keep these programs up to date. |
| more than we are doctors. But we still take care | | | | as viruses are constantly appearing, the major |
| of ourselves and do minor repairs on our bodies. | | | | companies generally issue updates daily. Most of |
| If we contract a cold, we don't need the doctor | | | | the software is configured to automatically update |
| to tell us to rest and take drugs. The same is | | | | the virus databases. |
| true of our computers. No one expects you to | | | | Next, check your computer for programs that |
| write programs for it or repair a faulty | | | | are running that you don't use and remove them |
| motherboard, but there is no excuse not to be | | | | or change the settings so they only run when you |
| able to treat your machine for minor ailments and | | | | need them. Many programs load automatically |
| preventative care. Here are three things you | | | | when your computer starts, and if you don't use |
| should be doing to keep your computer healthy. | | | | them they simply eat up system resources. |
| Anti-virus software is an absolute must. These | | | | Occasionally you need to clean something called |
| days the internet is teaming with serious virus | | | | the registry. The registry is a very important part |
| threats and without proper protection, infection is | | | | of your computer and over time it becomes |
| a matter of when, not if. First make sure you | | | | cluttered with bits and pieces of old programs. |
| have anti-virus software installed. Windows is | | | | Free registry cleaners automate the cleaning |
| generally very good at letting you know if you | | | | process and should be used every few weeks to |
| don't. If you need software, the internet has | | | | optimize your system. |
| several excellent free programs available. Next, | | | | |