How To > Improve Performance
We're always looking for ways to get more speed out of our computers, and new techniques are always being developed. However, there are some tried and true techniques that should work on any windows based machine.
Note: This steps should work for any Windows operating system, with the exception of Windows 2000. You will need to download and install the program msconfig.exe for 2000, as it is not included by default.
Go to Start
Go to Run
Type 'msconfig' and press 'Ok'
WARNING: You can make changes in the MSConfig tool that could cause your computer to become unbootable. Follow instructions carefully.
Select the 'Startup' tab.
A list of checkboxes should be displayed. Each box represents a program starting up when your computer first boots into windows. These programs run consistently from that point on: often times while the user is unaware.
Go through and uncheck any programs you do not need starting up as soon as you turn on your computer. Remember, these programs will remain on your computer, they simply will not run on boot up.
Feel free to reference any programs using the following site: http://www.sysinfo.org/startuplist.php
After you restart your computer, the computer will display a notice that the configuration utility has been used. Put a check in the box stating 'Do not show this message again' and click Ok.
Go to Start,
Control Panel,
Add/Remove Programs
These steps will display a list of all installed programs on the PC. Should you see any unwanted programs, simply select the program from the list and press the Change/Remove button.
Programs, once removed will be gone for good. Do not remove a program unless you're sure you will not want to use it in the future, or if you have a way of recovering the software.
Some programs that are common causes of undue misery are:
Once finished, restart the PC.
Every piece of Hardware inside of your computer is managed by a piece of software referred to as a driver. It handles the specifics of how your computer controls that Hardware. Most companies are constantly revising their driver software. Updated drivers often mean improved performance and stability, and occasionally improved features.
The drivers needed by your computer depend on your specific Hardware, consult your computers documentation or vendor for technical specifications.
Updated drivers are usually found at manufacturer websites.
recommended drivers to update:
Video Card: (www.ati.com, www.nvidia.com)
Sound Card: (www.creative.com)
Chipset: (www.intel.com)
Go To Start,
Control Panel,
Display,
Properties Tab
If available, set the color settings to 24bit Color, as the human eye can only view 24bit color and it costs extra processing power to display the extra 8 bits of color for 32 bit.
Select a resolution comfortable for you, yet small enough for decent performance.
recommended: (800x600, 1024x768)