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RECOMMENDED FREE PROGRAMS -
AVG Anti-Virus Anti-Spyware
This terrific software operates
silently and uses very little resources, unlike Norton and
several other pricey programs. And in comparison performance tests it's always rated
near the top.
Plus, you get FREE UPDATES and the program will not expire.
If your Windows version does not have at least MS Service Pack 2 you can download and
use two separate programs:
AVG Free Anti-Virus v7.5: http://www.filehippo.com/download_avg_antivirus/4029/
AVG Free Anti-Spyware v7.5: http://www.filehippo.com/download_avg_antispyware/
If
you DO have MS Service Pack 2 or better, all you need is one program:
AVG Free Anti-Virus Anti-Spyware v8.0: http://www.filehippo.com/download_avg_antivirus/
Note:
You should only have one AV program installed in Windows so be sure to
completely REMOVE your current Anti-Virus software BEFORE installing another
one.
On the other hand, installing several Anti-Spyware programs at a time is a
good idea.
To check if you have Service Pack 2: Right click 'My Computer' and
select 'Properties'.
The 'System Properties' / 'General Tab' will display your SP version.
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SIMPLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENTS -
This section is meant to empower you and
give you both knowledge and
control of your computer. Most information applies to Windows XP and in some cases
you
need to be logged on as Administrator to make the change. Also, there may
be slight differences in
the way you make changes in Windows XP Home vs. Windows XP Professional.
Many useless Windows functions are running automatically and the result can be slow
performance.
Turning off or changing these functions can speed things up considerably.
These changes can easily be reversed.
1.
Turn Off Startup Programs
These are programs that start and
remain running when Windows first boots up.
The problem is that unless you WANT a program to start automatically and STAY running
in the
background even though you're not using it (and who wants that?), it's robbing system
resources for
no good reason. It's like running your car's air conditioner in the winter.
Common offending programs are Microsoft Office, AOL, Instant Messenger, Real Player,
iTunes,
Internet Explorer, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Nero, and various Printer and Video card
functions.
Others like WeatherBug and Kazaa not only slow you down but can contain SPYWARE and
ADWARE.
To
disable programs like this at startup:
Click Start - Run. In the box type msconfig then click OK. Click the Startup tab.
In the list of all startup programs uncheck the ones you don't need, then reboot.
(Note: be sure to leave your Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware programs checked.)
2.
Turn Off Visual Effects
Fancy fades, shadows, and animations
have little benefit and slow you down.
Right click My Computer - Properties. Click the Advanced tab.
In the Performance box click the Settings button.
In the Visual Effects box check 'Adjust for best performance'. Click OK then OK.