Computer Care

To keep your computer running smoothly, you should have four main software tools installed on your computer:

an antivirus program
a spyware removal tool
an adware removal tool, and
an malware removal tool.

Also, running your Disk Defragmenter (Start> Programs> Accessories> System Tools> Disk Defragmenter) and your Disk Cleanup (Start> Programs> Accessories> System Tools> Disk Cleanup) monthly will help keep things functioning like they should.

Recommended Software

AVG by Grisoft has kept my computers virus-free for years. They have free basic service, with paid upgrades available. I use the free basic service.

Windows Defender is simply the best spyware removal program available. It has been recommended to me personally by three computer technicians, and I have seen it for myself clean up computers in the worst of situations. It's free, too! Available only for Windows XP Service Pack 2 or later, or Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 or later.

SUPERAntiSpyware.com is another superb tool that is recommended by IT professionals. It cleans malware, spyware, and adware.

Malwarebytes is an excellent malware removal tool that I use often for our computers.

CCleaner is a must-have free tool to remove unused and temporary files on your computer. When spyware and adware removal tools cannot remove unwanted items on your computer, CCleaner can. I use this program regularly. It is also highly recommended by IT professionals.

Google Toolbar is a tool that I depend on every day. I use it to fill in web forms instantly, search within websites, search news and images, and so much more. There is a built-in pop-up blocker that I love. It is free and is a must-have.

ClipMate™ - The Ultimate Clipboard Extender is truly an ultimate clipboard for your computer. In my line of business, I copy and paste scores of coding and other information, and ClipMate allows me to find my needed coding without having to look in multiple places for them. If you depend on lots of copying and pasting, you will find ClipMate a dream come true! You can try it for free before purchasing.

Snood is one of our favorite computer games. Prepare to be addicted!

Recommended Links

The Computer Lady explains computers, and addresses problems in plain language that anyone can understand. I have loved reading her newsletter for years and continue to learn new things.

WorldStart not only has some of the best computer tips available, it has some of the best and most unusual computer software and hardware at rock-bottom prices. They have several newsletters that you can receive by e-mail.

PC Pitstop has lots of diagnostic tests for your computer. The site can test your computer, then make recommendations to make it run better.

Tip of the Day is a newsletter with more than just one tip of the day. I have enjoyed this publication for years!

CNET.com has tech product reviews, news, and videos. You can learn tips and tricks on how to do computer-related tasks. I like to check with CNET before purchasing electronic gadgets to make an informed decision. I trust CNET's reviews and information.

Download.com, run by CNET.com, is a trusted source for software downloads.

TWiT.TV features podcasts of the latest trends in high tech. Winner of "People's Choice Podcast" and "Best Technology Podcast" in the 2005 People's Choice Podcast Awards. Very informative.

Tekzilla delivers product reviews, computer help, tech tips on everything from iPods to camcorders, HD to the Internet, plus do it yourself projects.

Common Craft creates easy to understand video explanations of technology, social issues, money issues, and more. They are short and simple and just superb!