Spring is finally here, and while we’re cleaning our houses and throwing out things we don’t need, it’s important not to neglect cleaning our digital lives as well.
Files can build up quickly and effect the performance of a computer. Here are some tips to keep your Windows-powered personal computer clean.
1. Antivirus Scan
This is something that should be happening on a regular basis, but in case it’s not, users should run an antivirus scan on their computer to make sure that it is free of malware. Not only can malware invade your privacy, steal your data and ruin your digital life, but it can also significantly slow down a computer.
2. Run Disk Cleaner
Running a Disk Cleaner can be very helpful in removing old, unnecessary files and speeding up your computer. A Disk Cleaner removes old temporary files used by programs that are not needed. You’ll be surprised by how many of these files there are on your computer after only a few months of use.
3. Uninstall Old Programs
Head over to the Control Panel and then to Programs. There should be a long list of all the programs that have been installed or that came pre-installed on the computer. Now, it’s important to be a little careful here, as you don’t want to remove something that you need or that is important for the computer to run. If, however, you see a program that you haven’t touched in six months, perhaps it’s time to get rid of it and free up space on your hard drive.
4. Put Things In Folders
Cleaning a computer isn’t always just about removing files, it can also be about organizing them. While not essential to how your computer runs, organizing files into folders can greatly help you in being more productive. It makes it easier to find things when necessary, plus it just looks prettier than a long list of unorganized files.
5. Clear History and Cookies
Cookies contain information that websites have gathered about you and stored on your computer as small text files. Most of these files are completely harmless, but others store private details like where you went, what you did, and any personal information you gave. Each browser and mobile device stores history and cookie differently, so we found a helpful website with instructions for a variety of mobile and desktop search engines.