Computer Slow? Try these tips

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Tips to make your computer faster

Taking forever for Windows to load, applications take an eternity to launch?

Over time, regular use of your computer builds up unneeded files on your hard disk. As the disk fills up it takes longer to read from the various segments on the disk. Neglecting to perform regular maintenance can add to poor computer performance.

Things you can do to speed up your computer.

  • Restart your computer more often. This closes unnecessary applications and results in a faster computer.
  • Uninstall unneeded applications. Frees up drive space and in some cases removes unneeded services that use up system resources.
  • Delete temporary files using "Disk Cleanup". Helps to free up drive space.
  • Remove unneeded browser plugins. Speeds up browser, frees up system resources.
  • Defrag your hard disk using "Defragment and optimise drives" Helps to arrange your files on your drive, increasing drive performance.
  • Make sure Windows updates are set to enabled and automatic. No-brainer really.
  • Upgrade outdated hard drives to newer Solid State Drives. These new SSD drives are the best thing since free antivirus, they greatly speed up Windows and application load times.
  • Upgrade system RAM (Memory). Once you click an application it launches itself into memory from disk (memory is many times faster than disk), if you don't have enough memory the system creates more "memory" by using (slower) disk, slowing your computer even more.
  • Run regular Antivirus scans. Malware (viruses) can slow down your computer by utilising system resources.

If you need any advice or assistance with computer upgrades or maintenance, please get in touch with us.

Securing your computer from hackers and viruses for free

Hacker Viruses

Hackers and Viruses are a constant threat

Vulnerabilities in your systems could lead to an attacker introducing viruses, ransomware or other nasty malware. The result could end up causing you frustration, time and money.

Through this post I hope to educate computer owners about the steps to follow to create a safer computing environment. By following the basics outlined in this article you will be on your way to safer computing.

Securing your computer systems, the basics

  • Antivirus - A must on all computers. As a minimum, go for a free one like Avast free antivirus.
  • Wifi Security - Wifi is an easy way for a hacker to gain access to your systems. To combat this, use a complicated WPA 2 password. Do not use dictionary words.
  • System passwords - Use complicated passwords with a mix of numbers, letters and special characters. Do not use dictionary words.
  • Operating systems and software updates - Keep Windows updates on automatic, make sure all applications are up to date.
  • Online habits - Stay away from untrusted websites, do not open unsolicited emails and do not give out passwords online.
  • Backups - Have multiple encrypted backups, both onsite and offsite.

If you need help securing your computer systems, please get in touch with us.

 

How To Keep Your Computer Secure

keep computer secure

Surely a business owner won't leave his business doors open at night when going home, so why leave security holes in your computer infrastructure for outsiders to access?

In dealing with small businesses I come across so many systems where the basics are not even covered. Vulnerabilities in your systems could lead to an attacker introducing ransomware or other nasty malware. The result could end up costing you and your business.

Through this post I hope to educate a few business owners about the steps to follow to create a safer computing environment. By following the basics outlined in this IT risk assessment and security article you will be on your way to safer computer systems.

How To Secure Your Computer

  • Antivirus - A must on all computers. As a minimum, go for a free one like Avast free antivirus.
  • Wifi Security - Wifi is an easy way for a hacker to gain access to your systems. To combat this, use a complicated WPA 2 password. Do not use dictionary words.
  • System passwords - Use complicated passwords with a mix of numbers, letters and special characters. Do not use dictionary words.
  • Operating systems and software updates - Keep Windows updates on automatic, make sure all applications are up to date.
  • Online habits - Stay away from unsafe websites, do not open unsolicited emails and do not give out passwords online.
  • Backups - Have multiple encrypted backups, both onsite and offsite.

Have an IT company do an IT Risk Assessment of your systems to evaluate risk.

If you need help evaluating and securing your business computer systems, please get in touch with us.