PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance

The goal of this site is to provide the information you need to maintain your own PC with confidence.

In addition to the free posts, we have 2 guides available:

“PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition” and “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition“.

With these you will be more secure, your computer will be faster and your computing experience will be more efficient and best of all you will save money by not having to pay overpriced techs, shops and geeks.

Please read the information and feel free to comment.

Site Admin is James McFarlane.

James has over 15 years experience as a computer consultant for homes and offices.

His first computer was a TRS-80, before the PC, it had a tape cassette connection, no floppy, no hard drive. Have you ever seen an old 300 Baud modem? Remember green screens?

James’ first experience with the internet was when it was only government, schools and geeks. This is not to say he was or is a geek, just a very curious kid

Currently in addition to working with this site, James provides remote support for his clients. If you wish this service please contact admin@pc-maintenance-guide.com

Avira AntiVir is a great and easy to use security program. It offers reliable virus protection:

I have used it to successfully detect and remove many different viruses that were either completely ignored by big name antivirus products or the big name products were unable to remove.

Using Avira Antivir you get:

1. High recognition of viruses, keyloggers, Trojans, backdoor programs, worms, etc. and low false positives.

2. Automatic incremental updates of signatures, engine and entire software. Avira updates more often than any other antivirus company I have tested. In fact, one time I found a new virus on a system. I successfully disabled it, compressed, encrypted and password protected it so no one would open it accidentally. I then sent it to various security companies for analysis. Avira contacted me within 2 hours to thank me and inform me a new definition would be available within 24 hours – they had it in just under 18. The others took days and one even said not to send them a virus again! Without virus submission you get no where fast… take a guess at which company that was and how long they took to get a definition for the virus leaving all their users open to the threat…

3. Great real time protection, with Virus Guard monitoring.

4. An easy install and configuration.

5. Virus protection against known and unknown threats, using an advanced heuristic system.

6. A scheduler you can set to make automatic virus scans and updates on your system.

7. Forum and phone support.

8. XP 32 and 64 bit, Vista 32 and 64 bit, Mobile (PC and phone) AND Linux/Unix support. It has versions for users of all types from home to big business servers and networks.

9. Rootkit detection and removal.

10. Scans on individual files and folders is easy with the right-click menu addition.

11. Files can even be dragged and dropped into the AntiVir console for quick scanning.

12. Adware/spyware detection and removal.

13. A really great feature of AntiVir is it can be used in Safe Mode, a definite plus for removing stubborn infections or cleaning a system that might otherwise be unable to boot into Windows normal mode.

14. The comprehensive reporting options provide great details.

15. It uses only a small footprint – this is fantastic, not having your security hog all your resources.

For most people it comes down to this: it uses fewer resources and detects and removes more malware/viruses/etc than the big name bloatware hogs.

Check out Avira Antivir PE Premium and Avira Premium Security Suite, decide which is best for you. Of course if money is an issue, you can always get Avira Antivir Personal Free.

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Note: you can change the currency once you proceed to checkout.

This page is for sites I find interesting or useful. This could mean I have posted something, listed this site, created a profile or otherwise added content to the site or just that I use the site itself. I will add sites as I remember or use them more often etc. If you have suggestions, send me a note.

The Hunger Site: A simple click, only a few seconds of your time will help to feed someone. The Hunger Site was founded to focus the power of the Internet on a specific humanitarian need: the eradication of world hunger.

Please visit and click to help a starving person. It costs you nothing! Please sign up for their daily reminders so you can remember to click every day!

Just take a few seconds of YOUR time daily to go to a web site and click a button so someone can eat:

HubPages: Hubbers (HubPages authors) publish their Hubs (content-rich Internet pages/articles), and earn recognition among fellow Hubbers through the community HubScore ranking system. HubPages provides a search-friendly infrastructure which drives traffic to Hubs from search engines such as Google and Yahoo, and enables Hubbers to earn revenue from industry-standard advertising vehicles such as Google AdSense, Commission Junction and the Amazon Affiliates program. All of this is provided free to Hubbers in an open online community.
Current Page Rank: 6

Hub Blueprint: The Ultimate Guide to Hub Pages: You will learn how to master hub pages quickly and learn insider tips and secrets. Get your copy here and get started making great hubs and generating traffic and money.

Somuch.com: An SEO friendly human edited free link directory where you can find the best links sorted by topic and category. Their policy is to make it easy for you to find quality sites that aren’t just filled with google adsense advertisements. They try to add web sites that ultimately have something to offer, and are constantly checking their links to meet that challenge.
Current Page Rank: 3

Technorati is the recognized authority on what’s happening on the World Live Web, right now. The Live Web is the dynamic and always-updating portion of the Web. They search, surface, and organize blogs and the other forms of independent, user-generated content (photos, videos, voting, etc.) increasingly referred to as “citizen media.”
Currently tracking 112.8 million blogs and over 250 million pieces of tagged social media.
Current Page Rank: n/a

Technorati Profile

Submit Express helps companies increase their Web site productivity through a combination of Web site optimization and search engine submissions.
Current Page Rank: 6

Search Engine Optimization and SEO Tools

Facebook is a social utility that connects people with friends and others who work, study and live around them. People use Facebook to keep up with friends, upload an unlimited number of photos, share links and videos, and learn more about the people they meet.

Current Page Rank: 8

Here is one I just got and it is something EVERYONE with a website needs:

For anyone starting a website or looking to add a little professional flair to it, you should check out this site:

Causes of the Blue Screen:

BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) sounds rather scary or like hype doesn’t it? The reason it is referred to in this way is when you get the Blue Screen with its halt, error or stop information it is a serious system error in Windows with the only solution being shutdown or reboot and only cryptic information being supplied. There are many causes of the blue screen of death and it can be irritating to troubleshoot.

Faulty Device Drivers

Device drivers provide communication between the operating system, installed hardware devices and software that use the devices.

All of the connection and communications between software and hardware are through device drivers. When device drivers are not working correctly for any reason, they can fail to recognize certain commands. When this happens, an error is generated and the operating system (windows) starts a debug routine, which results in the blue screen. The operating system stops all running applications hopefully before you lose or corrupt any data you are using. The operating system can also cause a stop (Blue Screen of Death) if its kernel finds a device driver is not working correctly.

Always be sure you are using the latest genuine drivers direct from the device manufacturer. Doing so will result in less trouble overall, though on occasion manufacturers do release faulty drivers.

Corrupt System Files

The system files are the base for windows processes. When system files become corrupted the results can be simple irritations to complete disaster i.e. the BSOD. Fortunately Windows has system file protection which does help to recover the system in many cases.

Part of the system file protection is the dllcache which needs to be better understood to help avoid some problems. You may find some people erroneously telling you to delete the files in this folder. Do NOT delete any of these files unless directly instructed to by a tech, you know they have become corrupted or you are extremely tight on space and even then, make a backup of the entire folder to a CD/DVD.

If you delete these files, when Windows finds a compromised/damaged or otherwise corrupted system file it will not be able to restore the correct version. It can do this automatically or with system file checker. To do its job correctly windows needs to have the latest updates in that cache or it will ask for the Windows CD. If you have to give it the Windows CD you risk putting outdated files into your PC which will create a situation where you can and most likely will have instability and crashes.

RAM Failure

RAM is generally more resistant to failure compared to other computer components. However, they can still become damaged and faulty. Some of the causes of damage are:

- Electrostatic shock

- Power surges or bad power supplies

- Incorrect memory voltage

- Humidity

- Heavy internal dust and dirt

Occurrences of the BSOD due to Faulty RAM

When trying to install Windows you can get a Blue Screen due to faulty memory.

During regular operation of your operating system a Blue Screen can occur due to overheating.

Bad RAM can also cause random issues with many programs, like games, Photoshop and database applications – any program that is memory intensive.

CPU Issues

The over-clockers out there are not going to like this or agree, but in many cases an over-clocked CPU can and does cause a Blue Screen as well as many other random errors. This is not a procedure you should attempt; in most cases you will have problems. Many will try this anyway, in these cases do NOT over-clock more than 20% and be absolutely sure you have installed proper cooling as the heat issue is the most likely to cause problems. To keep your system stable you should NOT over-clock.

Other Hardware Issues

The failure of hardware can cause many different random errors and issues. The video card in particular seems prone to failures. You may notice strange graphical fluctuations, the BSOD and at the worst case a failure to boot. Again heat is an issue, the GPU is sensitive to heat and must be kept cool. Other causes of a BSOD are a failing network card, sound card and even hard drive.

Best Solution

As always the best thing to do is proper preventative maintenance. This includes the standard removal of temp files, update your security tools and operating system and a physical inspection and clean up of your computer. See Procedures for Physically Cleaning Your PC.

It is an unfortunate fact of most software, that as they age and become big names etc they get bloated, painfully slow to load and perform and too many mistakes are made. On top of that, many are grossly overpriced and can have terrible End User License Agreements and Privacy Policies. Software makers seem to think that once they are big enough they can treat end users terribly and they will keep coming back. Therefore it is always a good idea to keep an eye open for good alternatives to the overpriced bloatware that is infecting your PC and draining your wallet and wasting productive time with “extras”.

Here are just a few you should consider:

Big Name                       Clean Alternative

Adobe Reader                  Foxit Reader

Adobe Acrobat                 CutePDF Writer

Adobe Photoshop             Gimp

Microsoft Office                OpenOffice (also has PDF writing ability)

Quicktime                        Quicktime Alternative or Q-Lite

Real Player                       Real Alternative

Windows Messenger          Pidgin or Trillian

Outlook Express                Mozilla Thunderbird

Windows Media Player       GomPlayer

Of course we can not leave out Internet Explorer. There are many alternative browsers to consider. The most widely used alternative to Internet Explorer is Mozilla Firefox. Firefox is a cleaner faster and overall better browser, but it is also becoming a victim of bloat. That is not to say don’t use it, it is still my main browser, I have personalized mine and am quite happy with the add-ons and the extra security, I am just noticing it is not as fast as before. Hopefully, they will clean it up and keep it clean, the current bloat is minimal, but I want NO bloat.

My big issue changing from Firefox now is that not every add-on I use is fully compatible with the other browsers I am considering.

Unfortunately Opera has long gone into bloat and is even slower than Internet Explorer now. Interestingly one of the faster browsers is from Apple. The Apple Safari is available for windows and is definitely worth checking out though I recommend against betas of any program - wait until it is in latest full release. Two others you should consider are Maxthon and K-Meleon. Both are small, clean, fast and customizable.

Welcome to PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance. Here you have access to tips and information to help you properly optimize and maintain your PC. If you are serious about optimizing, tweaking, securing and keeping your computer stable: read and use the information available here.

Get started by reading the Tips, Security and Warnings and Save Money with Alternative Programs Sections and getting your Free Guide.

The information will help you improve your computing experience!

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Everyone has problems with their PC. Even top of the line brand new computers slow down and irritate the heck out of people. Everyone wants to know why their computer is so SLOW, how to fix it and how to keep it running fast. They are all looking for a quick and easy fix.

Most people just suffer through the unnecessary lag, waiting on their computer instead of working on it. Others pay overpriced shops to “fix” their PC and many times get a fast computer back, but no data. Many others get suckered by people offering “SECRETS!” Why do I say suckered? These are usually fly by night hucksters who know nothing more than what they have copied and pasted into their “secret” guides. The information in most of these guides is incomplete and even incorrect. You may notice a speed increase but you may also be giving up future stability.

Before following anyone’s guide, you should verify the information. How can you do this without paying? Well, most won’t give you any real information as they are only after your money. Stay far away from these hucksters!

Here not only can you read the Tips and other FREE information on the site, but you will receive the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition”. This guide provides correct information to take you STEP by STEP through the basic maintenance to clean and secure your computer and Tweaks to speed up your computer transforming your Slow PC into a Fast, Secure and Stable System.

Once you have followed the steps in the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition” you will know the information you get here is accurate and reliable. To advance to the next level you can purchase the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition”.

In the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition” you will get the same easy to read and follow process as in the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition”, but you will receive MUCH more detailed information:

More Tips!

More Tools!

More Tweaks!

More Security!

More Shortcuts!

Details on PROPER data storage and backups!

Information on Symptoms and Quick Fixes!

Details on properly Cleaning your PC, including virus and malware removal!

Follow the steps in the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition” and your PC will work even better than when you first took it home from the store!

The “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition” can make YOU the overpaid Tech in your area!

Click here to buy it NOW!

Is your computer running slower each day?

Do you get constant errors or random restarts?

Are you wasting time waiting on your computer instead of working on it?

Have you had the dreaded “BSOD” (”Blue Screen of Death”)?

You CAN be Free of Random Errors, Slowdowns and Crashes!

Get Our Latest Guide: PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition

“Easy To Understand” detailed step by step information for fixing your PC and keeping it in Optimal operating condition.

Do You Know The Physical Threats to Your Computer? See Page 14!

Having Random Problems and Slow Downs? See Page 17!

For System Security, See Page 26!

Backups and Data Management, See Page 58!

Of Course, What Most People Are Looking For is on Page 77! Tweaks and Tune-Ups!

In “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Pro Edition” you will learn many shortcuts, the programs to use to protect, clean and optimize your PC, Tips on standard errors and Tweaks to optimize and speed up your PC!

Follow the guide and your PC will be Fast, Secure and Stable and you will save time and money.

End your Frustrations with your Computer.

Maximize your computers performance.

Get your guide today.

*~* ONLY $19.95! *~*

Less than half the cost of 1 hour of average tech support!

The first time you save a trip to the shop or a call to the local geek it has more than paid for itself! Saving you time and money!

See the last page of the guide for information about our affiliate program.

Make money helping others become free of PC pains.

STOP Losing Time and Money to a Slow Troublesome PC!

Download our FREE eBook

“PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition”

This is not a lame freebie to get your contact information.

In it you will find useful information to help you clean, secure and tweak your computer.

Sign-up & Receive Your Free Report right now!

Please remember to visit our Tips, Security and Warnings sections for more free information.

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For those seeking a more advanced solution to their computer needs check out our latest book

“Advanced Computer Maintenance“

Containing 50 pages of “Easy To Understand” detailed information for keeping your PC in Optimal operating condition.

Special Pricing Now ONLY $9.99

PC Maintenance. What is it and who does it?

PC Maintenance is a process where a person manages their computer, keeping it clean, secure, updated and running smoothly. Unfortunately most people do not do it.

Why not?

The average computer user purchases whatever the salesman pushes and never gets enough information on the system they purchase. People are constantly in a bad position because they do not have the necessary information to maintain their computer properly. This results in costly mistakes and many trips back to the shop. Unfortunately most people will not know if what the shop tells them is true.

In many cases a five minute fix will take care of the problem yet the shop charges one hour minimum. They also do not truly help the person as they do not provide any information as to the cause of the problem.

Why not?

They make too much easy money due to your lack of information.

Giving PC Maintenance tips or proper PC Maintenance tools results in less money for the shop.

So how do you avoid costly mistakes and getting taken advantage of?

Most people try to learn by purchasing books, taking classes, or asking friends.

In most cases all of these have very few positive results.

The books are too intense so people give up.

The time for classes is limited.

Advice from friends can cause problems with your computer and your friendship.

What you really need is an easy to use PC Guide that provides you with useful information and prepares you to maintain your own PC, in an easy manner. Then you can use and maintain your computer with confidence you are doing so safely.

Download the “PC Tips Tweaks and Maintenance Free Edition”.

It lists some good free PC maintenance tools and teaches you simple steps to begin to properly maintain your computer. With it you will easily increase your PCs security and speed!

Compliments of: www.PC-Maintenance-Guide.com

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In many cases there are great free alternative programs you can use instead of purchasing commercial software.

I prefer to use and recommend free alternatives when they are equal to or better than the commercial ones.

However, this is not always possible. The programs listed on this page are the few commercial ones I do use and recommend as in testing I have not found any free alternatives that are as good or better.

I have not found a free or even paid tool that does a better job and is easier to use than Acronis True Image. It is what I use and recommend. It is easy to use and set up for regular backups and it has a very high percentage of successful restoration.

To keep track of all your passwords and accounts you will want to use an encrypted central database. I selected Roboform for my personal use as it can be fully integrated into numerous browsers. It gives me the ability to manage all my accounts without having to deal with an external application.

Here are just a few of the key features I use and love about it:

• Generate Secure Random Passwords
• Save password info from login form
• Automatic login to online accounts
• Fill long online forms from Identities – this is great for submitting anything you use regularly, even articles to many sites.