3 ways to boost your computer's performance

If you've never defragmented your hard disk or cleaned out temporary files, or if it's been awhile since you've last done so, run the Windows Live OneCare full-service scan to do it all in one fell swoop!

Check the hard disk for errors

If you're using Windows XP, you can use the Error-checking tool to check the integrity of your hard disk, including file system errors and bad sectors.

To run the Error-checking tool:

1.                  Click Start, click My Computer, and then right-click the local disk that you want to check (usually, this is drive C).

2.                  Click Properties, and then click Tools.

3.                  Under Error-checking, click Check Now…. Make sure both check boxes are selected, then click Start.

Don't use a program? Get rid of it

Over time, you or members of your family may install software programs on your computer. Sometimes, these new programs are exactly what you're looking for and you use them all the time. Other times, these programs don't do what you hoped and you use them less and less until you forget about them altogether. Even though you aren't using a program, though, it still consumes resources and can affect your computer's performance.

To remove programs you don't need anymore:

1.                  Click Start, and in Category View, click Control Panel.

2.                  Click Add or Remove Programs, and then click Remove Programs.

3.                  Scroll through the list and examine each program. Windows XP lists how often you use a program and what day you last started it.
Note: Don't remove anything labeled "Update" or "Hotfix." These things improve the security of your computer.

4.                  Click each program you no longer need, click Change/Remove, then follow the prompts to uninstall it.

You may have to restart your computer after removing a program. After your computer restarts, repeat steps 1 through 4 to remove more programs.

Note: You must be logged on as an administrator to add or remove programs.