Basic Cleanup and Computer Optimization Steps

Follow these basic cleanup and optimization steps to improve your machine's performance:

    1.   Restart the Computer

      •   Simple but Effective: A restart can clear temporary files and close background processes that may be affecting performance.

    2.   Check for Malware and Viruses

      •   Run Antivirus Scan: Use the installed antivirus software to perform a full system scan.

      •   Use Anti-Malware Tools: Tools like Malwarebytes can detect and remove malware that traditional antivirus might miss.

    3.   Update the Operating System

      •   Windows Update:

             •   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

             •   Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.

    4.   Uninstall Unnecessary Programs

      •   Remove Unused Software:

             •   Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.

             •   Uninstall programs that are no longer needed or recognized.

    5.   Disable Startup Programs

      •   Manage Startup Items:

             •   Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

             •   Go to the Startup tab.

             •   Disable programs that don’t need to run at startup by right-clicking and selecting Disable.

    6.   Clean Up Disk Space

      •   Disk Cleanup Utility:

             •   Search for Disk Cleanup in the Start menu.

             •   Select the drive (usually C:), check the boxes for temporary files, recycle bin, etc., and click OK.

      •   Delete Temporary Files:

             •   Press Windows Key + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.

             •   Delete all files in the temporary folder.

    7.   Check for Disk Errors

      •   Run CHKDSK:

             •   Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

             •   Type chkdsk C: /f /r and press Enter.

             •   Restart the computer to allow CHKDSK to run.

    8.   Defragment Hard Drive (HDD Only)

      •   Optimize Drives:

             •   Search for Defragment and Optimize Drives.

             •   Select your hard drive and click Optimize.

      •   Note: Do not defragment SSDs; it can reduce their lifespan.

    9.   Adjust Visual Effects for Performance

      •   System Properties:

             •   Right-click This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings.

             •   Under Performance, click Settings.

             •   Choose Adjust for best performance or customize by disabling unnecessary animations and effects.

  10.   Update Drivers

      •   Device Manager:

             •   Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.

             •   Update drivers for key components like graphics and network adapters.

  11.   Check for Background Processes

      •   Task Manager:

             •   Under the Processes tab, look for programs using high CPU, memory, or disk usage.

             •   End tasks that are not critical by right-clicking and selecting End task.

  12.   Browser Cleanup

      •   Clear Cache and Cookies:

             •   In your browser settings, clear browsing data to free up resources.

      •   Disable Unnecessary Extensions:

             •   Remove or disable extensions that are not in use.

  13.   Disable Unnecessary Services

      •   System Configuration:

             •   Press Windows Key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

             •   Go to the Services tab.

             •   Check Hide all Microsoft services to avoid disabling critical services.

             •   Uncheck services from third-party software that aren’t needed.

  14.   Check Hard Drive Space

      •   Ensure Adequate Free Space:

             •   Open File Explorer and check that the primary drive has at least 15% free space.

  15.   Run Performance Troubleshooter

      •   Built-in Troubleshooter:

             •   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

             •   Select Additional troubleshooters and run the Performance troubleshooter if available.

  16.   Adjust Power Settings

      •   Set to High Performance:

             •   Go to Control Panel > Power Options.

             •   Choose the High Performance plan to maximize performance.

  17.   Scan for Registry Errors (Advanced)

      •   Use Caution: Only use reputable software and ensure data is backed up.

      •   Registry Cleaners: Tools like CCleaner can clean up invalid registry entries.

  18.   Check for Overheating

      •   Physical Inspection:

             •   Ensure that fans are working and vents are not blocked.

             •   Clean out dust using compressed air.

  19.   Upgrade Hardware (If Necessary)

      •   Increase RAM:

             •   Adding more memory can improve multitasking and performance.

      •   Install an SSD:

             •   Upgrading from an HDD to an SSD can significantly speed up boot times and file access.

  20.   Backup and Reset (Last Resort)

      •   Backup Important Data:

             •   Ensure all important files are backed up to an external drive or cloud storage.

      •   Reset PC:

             •   Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

             •   Choose Reset this PC and follow the prompts.

Notes:

•  Data Backup: Always remember to back up important data before making significant changes.

•  Caution with Changes: Be careful when disabling services or uninstalling programs to avoid affecting system stability.

•  Professional Assistance: If any issues persist after these steps, engage with our professional technical support.