"Optimize a PC" means to make it run as well as it can. It would involve actions to maximize its performance so it is as fast as possible and stably runs like it should.
Of course you could install all new hardware, so you have to draw the line somewhere (like at what budget you have).
Here is a routine that has proven very successful at optimizing a PC with minimal expense:
0. Ensure the Hard Disc Drive is not damaged or faulty.
Solution - Run CheckDisk:
a. Start> Computer >select C Drive>Right Click C Drive>select "Properties">"Tools" > click "Check Now"> Select both boxes and click "Start".
b. This can take a long time, so let it complete (may take all night or longer. Be patient.)
1. Ensure your PC has as much memory (RAM) as possible.
Solution -- Find out how much RAM your PC has:
a. Go to Start > Right Click "Computer" > Properties
b. This will list the processor type and speed as well as how much RAM is installed and what version of windows is running along with the Service Pack #. Write all this down as it may be needed later.
c. Search your PC's name and model # followed by "memory". Some sites will tell you what kind of memory you need and how much your PC can use.
d. Get the maximum amount of memory your computer can hold and install it (you can search "How to install memory on a (your model name and #)" to find some videos on how to do this.
2. Ensure the PC is protected.
Solution - Update existing Anti-Malware software or install if there are none.
a. Open the Anti-Virus program and update it;
b. Open the Anti-Spyware program and update it;
e. If no Anti-Virus or Anti-Spyware, get good programs (If getting another AV program, remove the old one before installing the replacement one).
Here are some sources for Anti-Malware and Anti-Virus programs if needed:
MalWare Bytes:
http://download.cnet.com/Malwarebytes-Anti-Malware/3000-8022_4-10804572.html
AVG AntiVirus:
http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edition-2011/3000-2239_4-10320142.html
3. Remove Malware from your PC
Solution - Run the Antivrus and then the Antispyware scans (can take a while if never done. Be patient):
a. Scan the whole system with the Anti-Virus;
b. Scan the whole system with the Anti-Spyware;
c. Follow recommendations with anything found.
4. Next, ensure the Registry is clean.
Solution: Get and run a good registry cleaner.
a. Check to see if there is a registry cleaner already on the system;
b. if none, get CCleaner here: http://download.cnet.com/ccleaner/
c. Run the Registry cleaner till it finds and corrects all errors.
5. Defragment the drive.
Solution - Get a good third party program that will defrag your drive and keep it defragmented.
Fragmentation is basically broken-up pieces of files and free space randomly scattered all over your disk. The disk has to work a lot harder to save files in pieces and then to find them again and this really slows your computer down. It also wears out your
disk, as the more the disk is used, the faster it wears out.
Basic defragmenting finds all the pieces of a file and puts them together, saving time.
a. Here is a Top 10 Reviews side-by-side comparison of the best defrag programs around:
http://disk-defragmenter-software-review.toptenreviews.com/
b. Select a program and install a free trial. The better defrag programs are automatic. The gold medal winner in the above review can
defrag while using the PC (complete transparency) and it also prevents fragmentation.
c. Defragment your disk drives and set the program up to keep them defragmented.
The best defrag programs are very fast and the top placers will defrag while the PC is in use with no problems.
Once this all is done, your PC will be in the best shape possible.
Bill R TechSpec
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