There are several things that anyone can do to keep their computer running fast and efficient. Some of these task are part of your "System Tools" found under "Accessories" in the "All Programs" list. A large majority of operations we are hired to do are a direct result from the computer owner not maintaining their computer with these basic task. Disk Cleanup - The Disk Cleanup tool helps you free up space on your hard disk by searching your disk for files that you can safely delete. Disk Defragmenter - Open Disk Defragmenter and choose the disk to defrag, press "Defragment". Security Center - Routinely check your Security Center to assure your Firewall, Automatic Updates, and Virus Protection are on. " their are many good free anti-virus programs available, we recommend Microsoft Security essentials, a link can be found on our resource page " Limit Startup Programs - Close them if you don't need them and configure them not to load when you boot up. Look for them in your system tray. Other programs running in the background can be found by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete at the same time. Backup, backup, backup, any data you cannot afford to lose to at least two separate physical drives. So backup data to external hard drives, Zip disks, CD-RWs, online backup and storage services, (we recommend using "Dropbox." a link can be found on our resource page) etc. Backup today what you can't afford to loose tomorrow. Keep track of the software disks for your computer and new peripherals. These disks contain valuable software drivers and programs for Windows and are needed when Windows must be reloaded. Keep these disks and your Windows software disks in a safe, dry, place -- you never know when you will need them.