How to Give an Old Laptop New Life

These days, everyone wants to stay connected through technology, and a laptop computer can be a convenient way to do so. However, laptops also have a tendency to run slower than desktop computers, and like any computer, their speed and functionality can deteriorate over time. The following steps can help you optimize your computer's functionality and give new life to your laptop.

Instructions

1. Avoid downloading non-essential programs from the Internet. There are so many available programs on the Internet to download, and some of them can harm your computer with spyware or viruses. Even if you download a program that you absolutely require, remember that all programs take up space on your laptop, and could potentially impair your system's functionality.

2. Install anti-virus software. These days, anti-virus programs are essential to maintaining and protecting your computer. An anti-virus program will warn and protect you against things that may impede your computer, such as pop-up windows, harmful sites, hackers, and of course viruses.

3. Delete unused or unnecessary programs. Click on the Start button at the bottom left side of your screen. Open your Control Panel and click on the Add or Remove Programs icon. This will bring up a list of programs currently on your computer. Delete any programs you never use or have become unnecessary for whatever reason to free up space on your laptop.

4. Clear out your Cookies and other temporary files. Open your Internet browser and click on Tools from the top menu bar. There should be an option to Clear Private Data such as your History, Cookies or Cache. You should delete these temporary files regularly to optimize the functioning of your computer.

5. De-frag your computer. Click on the Start button on the bottom left side of your screen. Go to the Control Panel, and then click on Performance and Maintenance. There should be one or two options to free up space on your hard disk or to de-fragment your laptop. Click on either of these items and your system will analyze whether you need to free up space by de-fragmenting.

Tips & Warnings

• Beware of pop-up windows or other ads that promise to optimize your computer or make it faster. These typically prompt you to download another program from the Internet, which may be unsafe.

• If you delete crucial programs, you can cause damage to your laptop. If you are unsure about which programs you can delete, bring your laptop to a professional to have it serviced.

• Handle your laptop with care. Remember that the internal hard drive of your laptop is contained within that small area of space sitting on your lap--always set your laptop down delicately.