Steve's Semi-Annual "spring" cleaning list

[sswilson]

Having just started to defrag my main rig (65% fragmented ) I decided it was time to do some preventative maintenance to my computers, and thought this might be a good time to see what everybody else does to keep their computers running smoothly.

I'll start off with my own list, but if anybody sees anything missing, jump in and I'll amend the list.

[sswilson]

1- Disk Cleanup

Just run the standard windows app to get rid of standard gunk that builds up over time. Have a look at installed windows apps at this time and remove anything you don't need.

2- Program / file / Game removal

As a general rule of thumb, I uninistall any app, game, or file that I haven't looked at in 3 months. Chances are any app is going to have a new version, and if I decide to play a game again it doesn't take that long to install it. Files on the other hand... if it's been 3 months since I last accessed it, and I still need it, it's time to back it up for long term storage and get it off of my hard drive before I lose it.

3- Update drivers

4- Check for patches or updates

5- Defrag!!!!!

6- Check for Bios updates

Updating Bios has become much easier and safer in the last year or so, but I still won't do an update unless there is a clear reason to do so, and on-line research doesn't point to any issues. (I don't like turing my motherboards into paperweights... :) ).

7- Physically clean filters and the inside of the case.

This is especially important for those of us on WC... the rad isn't going to do much if the channels are clogged with dust. Fans will also perform a lot better when you remove the buildup on the leading edges of the blades. (Might also be a good time to consider cleaning out a WC loop).

I'll add to this as I think of other things, but welcome any and all suggestions!!!!

[kzEr]

Originally Posted by sswilson

1- Disk Cleanup

Just run the standard windows app to get rid of standard gunk that builds up over time. Have a look at installed windows apps at this time and remove anything you don't need.

2- Program / file / Game removal

As a general rule of thumb, I uninistall any app, game, or file that I haven't looked at in 3 months. Chances are any app is going to have a new version, and if I decide to play a game again it doesn't take that long to install it. Files on the other hand... if it's been 3 months since I last accessed it, and I still need it, it's time to back it up for long term storage and get it off of my hard drive before I lose it.

3- Update drivers

4- Check for patches or updates

5- Defrag!!!!!

6- Check for Bios updates

Updating Bios has become much easier and safer in the last year or so, but I still won't do an update unless there is a clear reason to do so, and on-line research doesn't point to any issues. (I don't like turing my motherboards into paperweights... :) ).

7- Physically clean filters and the inside of the case.

This is especially important for those of us on WC... the rad isn't going to do much if the channels are clogged with dust. Fans will also perform a lot better when you remove the buildup on the leading edges of the blades. (Might also be a good time to consider cleaning out a WC loop).

I'll add to this as I think of other things, but welcome any and all suggestions!!!!

I generally follow the same routines at home with the exception of the program removal...I usually uninstall that once I realize I'm not going to use it.

Oh, and drivers...I update those quite often (Maybe check once a month for new major drivers, [vid, sound etc])

One thing I will add, is that I prefer to use a visual defragger (which alas, isnt in windows vista anymore) like Auslogics DiskDefrag. I'll also run a registry cleanup in CCleaner and every so often a registry defrag using Auslogics RegistryDefrag

[sswilson]

I've used a few registry cleaners in the past (ccleaner for sure) but I've found they remove some references which cause issues down the line, so I just don't bother. I also do many driver updates fairly regularily, but once into full maintenance mode I go looking for drivers (like motherboard, printer, etc.....) that wouldn't normally get done unless there was a problem.

[Nodscene]

I generally keep my system clean on an ongoing basis. I use CCleaner or ATF cleaner to remove all the temp files. I run Raxco Perfect Disk every couple of weeks or when I remove any large programs and I usually run the boot defrag at the same time. So my system is pretty much always in tip top shape.

[SugarJ]

Your list is very similar to the things I do, but I do them more often, like on a monthly basis, or while I play poker online.

A couple of useful programs:

Auslogics Registry Defrag: Defragment and Compact the Registry to Speed Up Your Computer

JKdefrag (visual disk defragger, free): JkDefrag v3.36

[miggs78]

Other useful programs:

CCleaner: CCleaner - Home

Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes.org

P.S. Steve useful guide, usually follow the same procedures, but nice guide for new people.

I like ccleaner because you could do a diskcleanup and program removal from the same program. I also weekly use the registry cleaner on ccleaner, everytime I uninstall programs, install updates, install any new programs..

[sswilson]

I wish I could remember what it was that CCleaner always messed up for me. It was something like Java settings that required me to uninstall and re-install the app once I figured out what was wrong, but I could never remember exactly what function it messed up so I just stopped using it. :)

[Lima]

Same here. I also try to keep all that gunk that builds up at bay. I also do a registry cleaning and defrag the hard drive after updates, install or removal of apps/drivers.

Something for you guys to check out if you haven't heard of it yet Tweaking companion

[miggs78]

Originally Posted by sswilson

I wish I could remember what it was that CCleaner always messed up for me. It was something like Java settings that required me to uninstall and re-install the app once I figured out what was wrong, but I could never remember exactly what function it messed up so I just stopped using it. :)

Oh is it.. Used for it for over an year now with no problems at all, it actually oworks like charms for me.. Oh well.. maybe give it a try, since their previous releases months back, the new ones are actually a lot better, registry scanning is so much better, cleans all cookies etc faster and accurately. Two things I really like about it is, you can uninstall multiple apps at once, windows add/remove only one, and second is that you can clear cookies all internet browser's cookies, history etc etc at once, other programs might have it, I personally like this feature a lot...

But nonetheless, nice to know you and your capabilities .:)