Smart Woman: Give Your Computer A Tune-Up
By: Lane Stone & Nathan Hale
Updated: July 15, 2010
Your computer's just like your car -- when it works, life's a breeze. When it doesn't, you're stuck on the side of information super-highway.
Chances are you need a tune-up … and you can do it yourself for free! The website freecomputerzone.com can direct you to trusted companies like Norton and Trend Micro who offer free virus scans and even free software.
Industry website cnet.com also provides down-loadable scanning and cleaning software that's been pre-tested for bugs and viruses.
If you choose to do nothing, take note -- experts say a computer without anti-virus software will be attacked within 20 minutes of logging online. Meanwhile, if the previous solutions don't do you any good, there's this -- the
website lifehacker.com says you can always wipe your hard drive clean, and then re-install the programs that came with your computer. Easy, fast, and free, and best of all, you don't have to buy a new computer.
Statistics show slow PCs are one of the biggest sources of frustration in the workplace. Experts say you can likely save thousands of dollars in repair bills and new equipment by simply cleaning out your computer on a regular basis.
