A properly maintained computer is key in ensuring a fast and smooth computing environment. In addition, to the standard virus scanning and defragging procedures, there are additional steps that can be taken to ensure a computer is running in a optimize state.

Listed below are the essential procedures for maintaining a computer.

Delete Temporary (tmp) Files

Temporary files are created on the hard disk by programs to store information while the program is in use. After the program is closed the tmp files should be deleted. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and over time, the hard drive starts to be filled with unnecessary tmp files.

Steps to Delete tmp Files:

1. Start | Search

2. Select All Files or Folders

3. In the search box type *.tmp

4. Click Search Now

5. Edit | Select All – will select all the tmp files for deletion

6. Press Delete key

Delete Temporary Internet Files and Cookies

When surfing the Internet sites that are visited store temporary files on the local computer in cache or as cookies. These files contain information about the site including text, graphics and personal information. Over time, the number of these files continues to grow taking up disk space, and in the case of cookies, posing possible security hazards.

NOTE! Sites that store username and password information for automatic login save the information in a cookie. Before deleting cookies make sure to have username and password information recorded.

Steps to Delete Temporary Internet Files and Cookies in Internet Explorer:

1. Select Tools | Internet Options

2. Under Temporary Internet Files:

   • Click Delete Cookies to remove cookies

   • Click Delete Files to remove temporary files

3. Restart Internet Explorer

Empty Recycle Bin

When a file is deleted off a computer it is not deleted immediately but stored in the recycle bin in case it needs to be recovered later. While this feature offers great data recovery protection if not emptied can clutter the hard drive with unnecessary files.

Steps to Empty Recycle Bin:

1. Double click on Recycle Bin icon on desktop

2. Check to make sure there are no files that need to be restored.

   • NOTE! Once the recycle bin is emptied there is no method to retrieve the files.

3. Click on Empty Recycle Bin or File | Empty Recycle Bin

Remove Unnecessary Software

Many systems have software installed that is no longer uses, such as preinstalled software or demo programs. Not only is the software taking disk space but also can be loading components that use memory and degrade system performance. By removing this software hard disk space is increased and system performance is boosted.

Steps to Remove Unnecessary Software:

1. Start | Control Panel

2. Select Add/Remove Programs

3. Highlight program to remove

4. Click Remove/Change

5. Follow the instructions provided by the software for removal

It is recommended that only one software package be removed at a time. This ensures that if there is a problem with the removal of the software it can be determined which software caused the issue.