check the hard drive (Windows XP)
Open the Run dialogue and type chkdsk c: /f. This will check for errors in the file system on the hard drive labeled (C:\).
This can be scheduled by creating a text file that will be used by the Windows Scheduler. Name the text file chkdsk-boot.bat and type in the following two lines (the vertical line between the y and chkdsk is called a pipe and is the same key as the \ ):
echo y | chkdsk c: /f
exit
Now schedule the batch file (chkdsk-boot.bat) to run on a regular basis:
- Click START -> >All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Scheduled Tasks.
- Double-click Add Scheduled Task.
- Click Next.
- Click Browse.
- Find the chkdsk-boot.bat file then click Open
- Choose how often to perform the task. Weekly or monthly depending on computer usage.
- Choose a day and time to run the task.
- Your user name will probably be filled in. Replace with NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM. Leave the password field empty.
- Click Next.
- Click Finish.
clean it out
the intangible
Run Disk Cleanup (START ->All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools) to clean up temporary files used by Windows. If there are programs you rarely use, uninstall them (START -> Control Panel -> Add/Remove Programs) and regain the disk space for other programs to be installed.
the tangible
Physically cleaning your computer is something most people neglect. The fans inside of computers will pull in dust along with the cool air they require. That dust can block ventilation holes and gather on fan blades. Cases open differently depending upon what make and model you have. Many standard designs require you to slide a side panel off held on by screws located at the rear. Many Dell towers use a clamshell where the case is opened by holding in release tabs at the top and bottom of the case. The shell pivot point is located at the front and spreads apart at the rear on the vertical axis. Use a can of pressurized air or a good pair of lungs to blow out the dust. A soft brush is good for dust that is caked-on. Clean all ventilation holes and fan blades. Don't forget the fins of any heatsinks.
scan for viruses
Manually run a scan of your system with your virus scanning program around the same interval. Better safe than sorry.