Common Preventive Maintenance Measure Mistakes

The most common preventive maintenance measures that PC owners fail to take are:

  1. Routinely scanning and defragmenting their hard-drive(s).
  2. Correctly uninstalling software.
  3. Routinely updating their anti-virus software signature files.
  4. Using a surge protector for power and telephone surge protection.

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Routinely scanning and defragmenting their hard-drive(s)

Run ScanDisk about once per month to evaluate and, if necessary, repair your hard-drive. You can start ScanDisk by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking ScanDisk. Make sure that the type of test is "Thorough" and the "Automatically Fix Errors" box is checked.
Run Disk Defragmenter every two weeks to optimize the speed with which your programs load and run. Disk Defragmenter rearranges files and unused space on your hard disk so that programs run faster. You can start Disk Defragmenter by clicking Start, pointing to Programs, pointing to Accessories, pointing to System Tools, and then clicking Disk Defragmenter.
If your computer fails to completely run any of these programs, temporarily turn off your screen saver. If that doesn't work, reboot to Safe Mode and run the programs. To start Windows in safe mode, Click Start, and then click Shut down. Click Restart, click OK, and then press and hold the CTRL key until the Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu appears. For some machines, you can use F8 instead of CTRL to bring up the Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu. Enter the number for Safe mode, and then press ENTER. In safe mode, Windows uses default settings (VGA monitor, no network, Microsoft mouse driver, and the minimum device drivers required to start Windows). You will not have access to CD-ROM drives, printers, or other devices. More importantly, it does not automatically load many of the programs that interfere with ScanDisk and Disk Defragmenter.

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Correctly Uninstalling Software

To remove a program from your computer open the Add/Remove Programs Properties dialog box by clicking Start, pointing to Settings, clicking Control Panel, and then double-clicking Add/Remove Programs. Only programs that were designed for Windows can be removed by using the Add/Remove Programs Properties dialog box. Highlight the program that you wish to remove and click on the Add/Remove button. For all other programs, check that program documentation to determine which files should be removed.

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Routinely Updating Anti-virus Signature Files

New computer viruses are released everyday. To effectively combat new viruses, you must update your anti-virus signature files at least every two weeks. This can be done via the Internet. To do so, follows the instructions contain in your anti-viral program's user's manual.

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Using a Surge Protector

Most people understand that they should use a surge protector to reduce the risk of their computer being damaged by power surges. However, the most prevalent source of computer hardware damage is NOT from the power outlet. The most prevalent source of damage is the from the phone outlet. For a few dollars more, you can buy a surge protector that also has phone jacks to protect against surges through your phone line. Moreover, buy a surge protector that has an indicator light that shows that your surge protector is functioning properly. Once a surge protector is damaged, it provides no surge protection. Unless it has an indicator light, you won't know whether or not it's working.

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