How to improve business productivity in less than 15 minutes?
November 8, 2009
Businesses are increasingly reliant on computer productivity, yet very few users are able to optimize their computers and it is up to the IT department to take the lead in this area, bearing in mind that it is often the optimization of the simplest of tasks which will make the most difference to most users. This article describes simple steps that anyone can follow to rapidly speed up their computer. Implementing either of the first two steps in this article should take less than 15 minutes using a PC or Mac.
Step 1 - Clean the computer registry
Slow computers often have errors in their registry. One of the main functions of the registry is to connect software, hardware and computer files. For this reason the registry is often referred to as the computer’s nervous system. Over time the performance of any computer reduces as errors accumulate in the registry, which can also become corrupted. A simple step is therefore to locate then fix registry errors. Users could in theory attempt to cleanup the registry manually, however this method is not recommended as it requires deep knowledge of both the structure of the registry and its functions. Registry cleaner software are a faster, more reliable alternative to remove errors, unused file, poor links and deal with ActiveX components. Click on compare registry fix software for more information.
Step 2 – Delete and block adware and spyware
Another common reason leading to computers slowing-down, is the large number of spyware and adware, which are downloaded from the Internet, often without the users knowledge. Typically this occurs when downloading videos, music or other files from peer to peer (P2P) networks. An easy solution to improve the response time of any computer is to run an anti spyware or adware program which will scan, remove then block adware and spyware. It helps to test the relevant anti spyware or adware program by downloading a trial version as most of them are free. The main features to consider are Ease of Download and Simplicity of Use, Automatic Backup, Quality of Customer Service, and the overall effectiveness of the software. The best software tend to be simple to use, they also rely on a research capability which constantly updates the program for new threats. Click on best adware spyware removal for more information.
Step 3 – Eliminate viruses
Unsurprisingly many computer viruses can slow down computers and drive down response times. Often viruses damage computer files and use excessive resources such as large amount RAM and disk space. Running the latest version of the best anti-virus programs will fix many of the problems which are detrimental to computer performance.
Step 4 – Simple housekeeping tasks
There are many simple housekeeping tasks which can be done to improve the speed of any computer, for example uninstalling any software that is not needed. Another tip is to stop programs launching automatically, as this will also improve the speed of the computer. Small improvements can be expected from these simple tasks.
Step 5 – Optimise the Hard disk
For hard disks which are smaller than 2GB then at least 200MB of disk should be kept free and at least 500MB for larger hard disks. Computer speed also depend on the free space on the hard disk, as temporary files are placed there by computer software. This frees up space for the computer to swap files, which is used particularly when the operating system starts using virtual memory once it has run out of RAM. In that event, users can experience a reduction in speed, if too little space is available on the hard disk. To check the hard disk itself it is recommended to use a disk scanning programs such as Scandisk for Windows. For instance whilst some hard disks may be large enough, they may be too fragmented with some sectors being unusable. Running a defragmentation software is another useful step which will improve computer performance.
Step 6 – Optimising the RAM
Some programs are poorly designed and do not release RAM resources after they are closed. This adversely impacts the RAM available for other programs. Computers frequently run out of RAM after a while. In order to overcome this, ugrading the RAM is probably necessary. Alternatively running certain programs simultaneously should also be avoided, this option is of course free.
Step 7 – Stop the computer from overheating
Faulty fans are a common cause leading to the computer overheating, slowing down then freezing as a result. To overcome this problem, replacing the fan is the most pragmatic solution. The effect should be immediate as this will increase the flow of air through the computer, thereby reducing the computer’s temperature and increasing its speed as a result.
For more information click on how to make my computer faster.


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