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Computers, by their very nature will cause problems if they are not looked after correctly. Here are a few general recommendations for keeping your system in good condition.
- Keep Install a good anti virus programme. We recommend ESET NOD32
- your anti virus software updated at least once a week.NOD32 provides free daily updates for the first year.
- Only install software you really need.
- Install firewall software. This will help prevent your system being "hacked".
- Make regular backups of any important data. (Emails, documents, spreadsheets etc) Hard drives do occasionally fail.
- Keep your passwords safe. Do not tell anyone your password and do not write it down.
- Change your password regularly. Use at least 8 characters with at least one number.
- Do not use a normal word but use a phrase you can remember. I.E. "my dog and cat always want to fight" would be mdacaw2f.
- Do not open emails with an attachment unless you are sure it is safe.
- Keep a couple of hundred megabytes free on your hard drive. The windows swap file needs this space.
- Turn on the Windows Update feature.
- A full hard drive will cause your system to run slower.
- Memory is now very cheap. Buy at least 256 Meg but we recommend at least 512 when running Windows XP.
- Defragment your hard drive regularly. This will speed up file access.
- Always shut down your system correctly. Do not just switch off.
- Except for USB devices never plug or unplug anything from the system while it is powered up.
- A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) will protect your system from power cuts or electrical surges.
- Upgrade to Windows XP where possible. It really is the most stable release of Windows software.
What to do if you have a problem:
Here are a few quick things to do if you experience a computer problem.
- What has changed? Have you just installed a new programme?
- Uninstall it and see if the problem has gone away.
- Do you have power? Check the fuse in the main power cable. Is the power on at the wall socket?
- Check the cables are securely attached. (Switch off before removing or connecting cables.)
- Do you have any error messages? Write them down.
- Try rebooting the computer. Has the problem gone away?
- Call Abbeydale-Computers.
*Drivers for Windows*
"Drivers" are small programmes that tell your computer how to use a particular piece of hardware. A corrupt driver will cause your system to fail in someway.As an example there are video, sound and printers drivers for you video card, sound card and your printer. These are produced by the manufacturer of your particular cards. It is often worth updating your drivers to ensure your system can use the card to its best potential.
http://www.driverguide.com
This requires you to register but it is free. Includes resources for Mac and Linux/Unix as well.
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