How to clean your PC?

Is your computer slowing down, overheating or running out of disk space? Maybe it's time to clean it up. A poorly maintained PC is like an untidy house: it's easy to accumulate useless files - and lose performance.

In this guide, rzilient explains how to clean your PC efficiently and extend its life.

How do you know if your PC needs cleaning?

Certain signs are unmistakable, and when your computer needs cleaning it lets you know! Here are a few easy-to-identify indicators:

• Frequent slowdowns: your PC takes a long time to start up or open programs.
• Lack of disk space: your hard disk or SSD is almost full.
• Presence of unnecessary files: temporary files, duplicates, browser cache.
• Overheating and increased noise: your fan runs continuously.
• Unwanted advertising or malware: unwanted programs have been installed.

The risks of not cleaning your PC

A computer that is clogged with unnecessary files can lead to a number of problems:

• Performance loss: a saturated disk slows down the system.
• Software malfunctions: some programs may crash.
• Risk of overheating: accumulated dust prevents proper cooling.
• Threat of malware: temporary files and unnecessary software can be entry points for viruses.

How to clean your PC without specialized software?

You don't need advanced tools to maintain your computer. Here are a few essential steps you can take without being a tech whiz:

1) Uninstall unnecessary programs

Some software takes up space and slows down your system. To uninstall them :

1. Click on Start, then Settings.
2. Go to Applications.
3. Select unnecessary programs and click Uninstall.

2) Defragment your hard disk

Defragmentation reorganizes files for faster access.

1. Type Defragment and optimize drives in the Windows search bar.
2. Select your disk and click on Optimize.
3. Wait until the process is complete.

Note: SSD disks do not require defragmentation.

3) Clean up your browser and sort out extensions

Browsers store a lot of unnecessary data. To clean it up :

1. Open your browser and access the settings.
2. Delete browsing history, cache and cookies.
3. Uninstall unused extensions.

4) Store your files on third-party media

Free up disk space by moving certain files to :

• An external hard drive.
• A cloud service (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox).
• A USB key.

Best practices for a clean, high-performance PC

Updates and antivirus

• Keep Windows up to date by enabling automatic updates.
• Install a good antivirus to avoid malware.
• Perform regular scans to detect possible threats.

Discover our rzilient guide to IT maintenance for more best practices.

Avoid unnecessary file accumulation

• Empty the garbage can regularly.
• Delete temporary files using the Windows tool :
  1. Type Disk Cleaner in the search bar.
  2. Select your disk and click OK.
  3. Check any unnecessary files and click Delete.

By following these tips, you'll improve the performance and lifespan of your PC. Regular maintenance ensures optimum performance and prevents many problems.

Need help managing your IT assets? Discover rzilient's services!

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