Simple computer maintenance operations

1. Regularly run the hard drive defragmentation tool

2. Update everything

Update firmware and drivers

Firmware updates can help the main system and current subsystems work best. However, before deploying the firmware updates we need to test its functionality, and store copies of previously used or used firmware distributions for use when needed.

However, you should not upgrade your motherboard BIOS, if you do not have the experience to do so. BIOS flashing is difficult and if you do it incorrectly, you will have problems.

1. What is firmware? How is Firmware different from Software?

Driver updates can also optimize the performance of the computer. We also need to save the driver versions we have been using. As with firmware, we may need a storage version in case of need.

Update everything Windows and essential applications

Use the Windows Update service to download updates or use Windows Server Update Services to retrieve an approved list. However, we also need to note the possibility of conflicts between Service Packs and updates. If the PC is using important applications (such as IIS, SQL, MSDE, etc.), install the appropriate Service Packs when they are released. For Microsoft applications, check the Baseline Security Analyzer to determine the level of Service Packs.

Update antivirus, anti-spyware and antimalware software

Consider using the Automatic Updates feature to download the latest updates for this software. Use tools like Ad-Aware to enhance Trojan defense, hijacking attacks through browser applications, and many other behaviors.

3. Check service configuration and Device Manager

Depending on the system configuration set up, open the Services panel in Control Panel to install the currently used Windows platform services to automatic startup mode.

Open Windows Device Manager to find devices that are not working properly or have been removed. The subsystem components may report an error if they are not working properly or have been configured incorrectly.

4. Check the Page File configuration

Access the virtual memory configuration and then set the Page File size and location (memory page file) to match the size of the free space on the drive and the free memory area installed on the system.

5. Backup your data

When was the last time you backed up your data? And imagine how much data you will lose if your hard drive doesn't work? There are many ways to backup computer data, refer to the article:

1. What files on the computer need to be backed up?
2. 6 safe ways to backup and restore data on Windows 7 and Windows 8
3. How to back up automatically on Windows 10

6. Regularly run antivirus, anti-spyware and antimalware programs

Any computer connected to the Internet needs anti-virus software. Most antivirus software will monitor the system in real time, so it is not necessary to perform a daily scan, but you should schedule a system scan at least once a month.

Some antivirus programs can also protect the system against adware and spying. But if not, you can use specialized software for these types. Refer to the article Completely remove Adware and Spyware on your system.

7. Clean up the software

Every few months take a look at the Add or Remove Programs interface in Control Panel to check the applications you don't use anymore and remove it. However, please check carefully because there are system drivers in this list, deleting it may cause the system to stop working.

1. Top 4 best free application removal software

8. Clean up the operating system

Windows is not the most efficient operating system, it stores a large amount of unnecessary information, mostly in a temporary file format (never deleted). You can use tools like CCleaner to automatically delete this unnecessary data.

9. Check the power source

If using a UPS, make sure it is compatible with the power supply. If UPS is not used, we need to check if the power supply is suitable and meets the minimum power requirement. If necessary, use voltage stabilization devices.

10. Clean your computer regularly

Always perform the entire work of the entire system by removing the devices on the system, removing dirt and cleaning the inside and outside of the computer. In addition, other cleaning devices include: Mouse, keyboard, CD-ROM drive, display devices (monitor, projector, etc.).

1. 7 simple steps to make your laptop as clean as new

11. Check external connections and internal connections

Start the system and verify that the connections are smooth and correctly set. Check the hidden and connection settings of the accessory cards.

Ensure that the load level of the cable is appropriate. Having too many cables or overloaded connections can destroy cables, equipment, jacks, or systems. Therefore, it is necessary to reserve a number of cables connecting devices in the system so that they can be replaced as soon as necessary. Overloading may give rise to a number of interrupt issues during execution.

12. Ensure a clean working environment

Devices in the system always have a limit on certain temperatures. The high temperature environment will cause the devices in the system to not be cooled, resulting in the system being collapsed when a certain device exceeds the allowed temperature.

In addition, if working in a production environment (with lots of smoke and dust), we need to have a way to isolate the system, because the cooling fans will accidentally bring smoke and dust into the system.

See more:

1. 10 tasks to clean up your Windows computer should not be ignored
2. 13 things not to do when using a computer
3. Summary of tips to fix slow computer errors on Windows 10/8 / 8.1 / 7 and Windows XP