General Windows Maintenance Tips (Part 1)

Computers like cars require some general maintenance to keep them running properly and in peek performance. If you don't maintain and change the fluids in your car it could fail on you. If you don't properly maintain your computer, it can also fail on you.

Below is a list of ideas that you can use to help make your computer run better:

• Run Windows Update: It is critical these days to keep your system and applications up-to-date with the latest patches. These patches are designed to correct known problems and security holes that can expose your system to different types of exploits. These security holes can be used by malicious software programmers to takeover your system, steal your personal data, and more. Note: If you enable Windows XP Automatic Update, it can automatically download and install critical updates for you.
  
• Check for Malicious Software: Check your system for spyware, viruses, or other types of malicious software running on your computer. Even though you might be running anti-virus and anti-spyware software sometimes these programs can sneak past the resident scanners running on your computer. It is also a good idea to make sure that your signatures are up-to-date, and run scans of your system at least once a week.