Computer Clean Up & Improving Speed
Several factors impact computer performance, including virus infections, disk fragmentation, startup programs and Internet files. Most computers come equipped with utilities that aid in cleaning your system. However, purchasing third-party software for in-depth cleaning and performance reporting is common and directly affects the improvement of computer speed. Once viruses and unnecessary programs are removed and file fragmentation is addressed, a computer's performance increases substantially.
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Benefits
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Using cleanup utilities on a regular basis improves your computer's speed and performance. For example, when files and documents become fragmented, they are physically spread across a computer's hard drive. Working with fragmented files causes computer performance to slow down substantially. Using a defragmentation utility--typically part of the operating system--increases speed by returning each file to one location on the hard drive.
Running several programs at startup requires resources that impact computer speed. Removing programs from the startup process limit's the amount of required resources. As a result, your computer's speed and performance increase.
Viruses can cause a computer to suddenly become slow, according to Colby Sawyer College's website. Viruses and other malicious software use your computer's resources, causing a sudden drop in performance. Running virus scan software typically resolves the issue by removing any malicious software.
Function
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Computer cleanup utilities function in many different ways. Virus software works by searching for virus signatures contained in an updated database, according to St. Norbet College. When new viruses are developed, the anti-virus software should be updated to detect new viruses. Once identified, the anti-virus software either removes the virus, quarantines it or allows you to delete the program.
Defragmentation utilities analyze the selected storage drive and compact the files by placing them closer together on the drive. Depending on the severity of fragmented files, defragmentation can take any where from several minutes to several hours.
Disk cleanup utilities work by removing unnecessary files. For example, temporary Internet, recycle bin and offline Web pages are stored on your computer, which, over time, slows your computer's speed, according to Microsoft.
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Prevention/Solution
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Increasing computer speed requires a solid computer maintenance schedule. Most computer operating systems come equipped with features that allow you to schedule maintenance tasks. Scheduling disk defragmentation, virus scans and disk cleanups ensures better performance.
Types
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Several types of cleanup utilities are available, including built-in software, freeware--software available free of cost--and paid third-party software. Operating systems typically contain disk defragmentation software and some type of malicious software protection. Purchasing an in-depth anti-virus program better protects a computer from infection.
Warning
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When performing disk cleanup or performance tasks, backup important information on your computer. Performing a backup ensures your information, settings and programs are not affected. Data should be backed up to an external location like a flash drive or external hard drive. Most operating systems provide a backup utility.
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References
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