General everyday use of your PC will over time lead to a decrease in its performance. Simple tasks such as browsing the Internet, word processing and playing games will all contribute to the decline in its ability to run efficiently.

If left unchecked this gradual wear and tear will eventually lead to problems with your computer such as slow performance, freezes, system crashes and the irretrievable loss of data. To avoid this happening it’s important to perform regular maintenance on your PC.

Below are listed 8 maintenance checks which should be carried out regularly.

AntiVirus Scan

Every time you use the Internet, your computer is at risk from picking up what could be a potentially serious virus. If the virus is not removed it can result in critical damage to your system, not to mention putting your security at risk. It’s important therefore to run an antivirus scan regularly to check for any malicious threats. Always remember to keep your antivirus software definitions up to date to keep abreast of current security issues.

Update Your Operating System

Check periodically for any updates or patches for your Operating System. These are designed to keep your PC running smoothly and address any security problems. If a newer version of your Operating System becomes available, download and install it.

Install a Firewall

This is important especially if you use the Internet regularly. A good firewall, kept updated, will protect your computer from any security breaches and prevent hackers getting access to your PC or your personal information.

Backup your data

Always make regular backups of any data stored on your computer which is important to you. Even with good maintenance, there’s always a small possibility your computer could crash and all your important data could be lost forever.

Defrag your hard drive

Running a regular defrag on your hard drive will increase the performance of your PC and help it run faster by moving the data around so it can be accessed by your system much more efficiently.

Keep your PC clean

Your computer generates a lot of static and because of this dust will accumulate on the exterior components. This can cause your PC to malfunction. Keep all hardware clean and dust free.

Disk Cleanup

This system tool is integrated with your Windows Operating System. Run it regularly to delete old files and temporary data stored on your PC. Freeing up your hard drive of any unnecessary data will create space and improve your computers performance.

Clean the Windows Registry

The Windows Registry can become clogged with redundant files and fragments from old software and hardware components. Running a reliable registry cleaner such as RegCure will root out these unnecessary files and delete them, resulting in a faster performing computer.