Over time, all computers will need some type of maintenance. Errors, fragmented files, and other adverse elements can develop on the disk and affect the computer’s performance. In order to keep a computer running properly, the appropriate and regular maintenance of the machine is necessary. To do this, a user can choose from a variety of different maintenance tools. Some of the maintenance tools that are available for this task are anti-malware software, disk defragmenters, error checkers, and other software designed to streamline different parts of the computer system.
One of the most important maintenance tools for a computer system is a good anti-malware scanner. Many different companies, both well-known and obscure, distribute anti-malware software—some free of charge, some you have to pay for. The purpose of this software is to help keep unwanted programs off your system. You may also find it useful to scan the computer with a proper scanner whenever you notice a change in performance. If left unchecked, the different types of malware can slow down your computer, destroy files, or compromise your privacy.
When a file is saved, it may not be saved in one location. Rather, the computer may save the fragments of the file in different places. A disk defragmenter will rearrange the files so that a particular file is saved in one contiguous area. Some computers may come with a disk defragmenter included with the operating system, both others may not. In cases where a defragmenter is not included, a third party defragmenter may be necessary.
Over time, errors may develop on computer systems. To solve them, an error checker may be used. This maintenance tool can be called by different names on different operating systems. It is important to follow the directions for these tools, as different systems may require the tool to run in different areas. The tool may also require total use of the system and so you may be required to restart the computer before the scan can start.
Software used to cleanup the hard disk is another of the maintenance tools that can be useful to users. The disk cleanup tool is used in the Windows® operating systems to uninstall and delete unwanted programs in order to free up disk space and allow the computer to run faster. In order to clear the desktop from unused and unwanted icons, the desktop cleanup tool can be used. Other operating systems may not have these tools. Owners of such operating systems may need to cleanup their systems manually.
Another of the maintenance tools that can be used to keep computers in top shape is the registry cleanup tool. The purpose of this tool is to streamline the registry and rid it of undesired items. Cleaning the registry can help to speed up the computer and keep it running properly. Generally, this tool is only available for the Windows® operating systems. Many other operating systems do not use registries, so for them this tool is irrelevant.