Windows was designed to be easy for users to use, and this convenient aspect directly contributes to its success. The disadvantage is that the more convenient a system is, the more the chances of possible conflicts increase. It is a principle of equilibrium very similar to that summarized by Newton's third law, which states that in every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Exemplary in this case is the saying "You can't have your cake and eat it".
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Install the Security Features
Step 1. Do not surf the Internet without having installed anti-virus software
This is probably the single most important rule: don't use the internet or your email program without first installing anti-virus software. Not only is it important to have a good anti-virus program installed, but you also need to make sure it is constantly updated. Thousands of computers are infected with viruses every day. Computer repair shops can charge hundreds of dollars to clean up an infected system. A good anti-virus program typically costs less than € 50. We recommend a great program below.
Step 2. If your computer is connected to the Internet and running Windows XP or another older version of Windows, it is best to use a firewall with protection for both incoming and outgoing data
You can use ZoneAlarm for example. Search the internet for additional firewall options.
Part 2 of 4: Keeping Your System Up-to-date
Step 1. Keep your Windows system continuously updated
Many computer users forget to keep their Windows operating system up to date. Be diligent and always check for updates for your operating system.
Step 2. Make sure the system can handle any updates
Most software and hardware manufacturers list the system requirements needed to use their products. Whenever you decide to perform a hardware or software update, always make sure your system has the necessary resources and can handle the update.
Part 3 of 4: Keeping Things Tidy
Step 1. Keep the Windows registry clean with an appropriate cleaner
When you try to open a program - for example the Word word processing program - the computer queries the registry to find out where the program is stored. The registry contains references to settings and values for the operating system, programs, user profiles, document types, property sheets, ports, and system hardware settings. Essentially, much of what enters or leaves your computer is stored in the Windows registry.
Step 2. Always use the "Add or Remove Programs" function to remove installed software
It is not enough to just delete the software or applications installed on your computer. The "Add / Remove Programs" option located in the Control Panel is a great built-in Windows feature for detecting and using installer scripts. It is very important to use the "Add or Remove Programs" option, otherwise you risk damaging other parts of the system if they share the same files.
Step 3. Perform a disk cleanup
- Go to "Start" and look for the "Disk Cleanup" function.
- Once open, select the files you want to clean and click "Ok".
- Let the process finish, and that's it!
Step 4. Always keep more than 15% free disk space
Step 5. Install new programs on a partition other than "C:
".
Part 4 of 4: Remove Unwanted Programs
Step 1. Go to the taskbar, open unwanted programs and from the settings section of the respective programs uncheck the option "Run at Windows startup" (wording may vary depending on the type of application)
Step 2. Open the "Start" menu and click on "Start"
Delete any shortcuts you don't want to appear when your system starts up.
