4–2 Getting Started
Maintaining the Computer
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance is essential for keeping your computer in
good working condition. A few basic tasks include:
■ Creating backup files
■ Deleting unwanted files
■ Optimizing your hard drive
■ Running virus scan software
It is recommended that you back up files and optimize your hard
drive at least monthly. If you use your computer a great deal, you
may want to perform these tasks more frequently.
Cleaning Up the Hard Drive
As you use your computer and store files, the hard drive begins to
fill up and get cluttered, which ultimately affects performance. To
prevent this, you can delete files that you are not using.
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CAUTION: You should not delete any unfamiliar files. If in doubt,
do not delete.
To Clean Up the Hard Drive
1. Close all open programs.
2. Click the Start button from the Windows taskbar.
3. Click My Computer.
4. Right click the hard disk drive you want to clean up.
5. Click Properties on the pop-up menu.