How to Get Rid of Unwanted Stuff on Your Computer
Your computer is much like your office in that it can become disorganized and cluttered with old, unwanted stuff. And just like a messy office can slow you down as you work, a computer overloaded with software programs and data files can work slower as well. Fortunately, your computer can be made to run more efficiently by removing unnecessary software, deleting old files and clearing out temporary internet data.
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Instructions
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Removing Old Software
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Access your computer's Control Panel, which can be found in the Start Menu located at the lower left corner of your desktop on most Windows systems.
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Double-click the icon called "Programs", "Programs and Features", or "Add or Remove Programs"; you may need to click "show list of programs" after that.
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Choose a program that you no longer need and click "Remove." Continue down the list and remove all unnecessary programs.
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If there is a program on the list with which you are unfamiliar, use a search engine to find out what it is and if it is necessary. If you still cannot find out what the program is for, it is best to leave it on your computer.
Deleting Old Files And Temporary Internet Files
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Search through your desktop and personal folders, such as "My Documents" and "My Pictures" to identify any old files you no longer need.
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Use the mouse arrow to drag your old files to the Recycle Bin on the desktop, or right-click on them and choose delete from the menu that comes up.
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From your Start Menu, follow this folder sequence: Programs > Accessories > System tools > Disk Cleanup. Allow time for the Disk Cleanup program to begin.
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Check the boxes for Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet Files, and Temporary Files. Then Click 'OK."
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Tips & Warnings
Before performing computer maintenance, it is always a good idea to back up your important files on an external storage drive and create a system restore point in case your computer does not work properly after your maintenance operation.
