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| Image via David Dominici/FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
1. Clear your browser's cache & cookies.
Your computer will save items (graphics, media, etc.) to make speed up your internet experience. The problem is that over time, these cached downloads can become pretty hefty and bog down your system. The good news is that emptying the cache is quick and easy; some browsers will even let you specify when the browser should empty the cache automatically! Get detailed instructions for your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Internet Explorer) at RefreshYourCache.com.
Windows users can also opt to use the Disk Cleanup Utility, which will remove temporary internet files, downloaded program files, temporary program files, empty the recycle bin and more. Hint: I just reclaimed a whopping 11.9 GB using this tool.
2. Remove any bugs.
Ideally, you already have virus and malware protection on your computer that runs automatically, but just in case... Take a few minutes to download one of these free programs and make sure you don't have any hidden bugs on your machine. (I personally use Malware Bytes.)
- Malware Bytes Anti-Malware
- Ad-Aware Antivirus
- Spybot Search and Destroy
- Microsoft Security Essentials
3. Change your startup programs.
Do you feel like it takes forever for your computer to turn on and get going? An overloaded list of startup programs may be to blame. Please be aware that you should only stop programs that you know you do not need; some startup programs are critical to the operation of the computer. Things that are safe to remove from startup include: iTunes, Spotify, real estate programs such as the key card updater, etc.
Stop unnecessary programs from automatically opening one of several ways:
- Within the program itself: check the settings for the program. Look for a setting related to starting when Windows launches and disable it.
- **Use the MSCONFIG tool: Click Start > Run and type in msconfig. Select the Startup tab and uncheck the applications that you don't want to run on your next startup.
- **Install AutoRuns for Windows: This program is considered one of the more comprehensive startup managers available. Click here to download.
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