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Step 1
Determine what software programs have been installed on the system and which of those programs are critical to the user's needs.
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Step 2
Log onto the system as an administrator or authorized user with administrative rights and privileges under a Windows operating system.
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Step 3
Navigate to the control panel and locate the "Add or Remove Programs" panel. Once the list of programs installed populates, make note of any programs not needed.
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Step 4
Delete any software the user deems unnecessary. Highlight the software title and choose the delete or remove option. Often this requires the user to restart the PC. Continue this process until all unneeded applications are removed.
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Step 5
De-fragment the hard disk drive using the system hard disk tool. This correctly re-files all of the hard drives files, making data retrieval faster.
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Step 6
Install all proper and relevant device drivers for any peripheral devices, such as printers, cameras and scanners. Many of these drivers either ship with a CD driver disk or the driver can be directly downloaded from the device's website.
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Step 7
Establish an Internet connection through a reputable ISP (Internet service provider) and build the local network if more than one PC will be connected. Secure the network with proper firewall and anti-virus measures.
