How to Clean My Computer Cost-Free

“Clean my computer” – this is a frequently used search phrase for finding information about cleaning computers usually in the context of attempting to solve problems associated with malware or software issues. Cleaning a computer can mean either the cleaning of the hardware components or the processes involved in software maintenance and repair. Presented here are the basics for performing both hardware and software cleaning.

Computer hardware cleaning may sound less technical as compared to software cleaning. However, it is a task that necessitates adequate familiarization with the physical parts of a computer. It is not limited to wiping off dusts that accumulate on the case or the removal of cobwebs that form along the cables. Hardware cleaning should cover the parts contained inside the CPU case or tower.

The basic requirements for hardware cleaning include a screw driver (to open the case), duster, and a portable vacuum cleaner if available. The objective is simply to take away dust and other materials that can clog the fans and make the computer cooling system less effective. Dust and other particles that make their way into the computer case can block air flow and raise the chances of overheating. Likewise, they can shorten the useful life of the cooling fans. It is important to be very careful when touching the delicate parts and wirings. One who is new to opening his or her computer case can do the cleaning but it’s imperative to be well acquainted with the parts. Disconnecting tiny wires or leaving conductive materials inside the case can lead to problems. Generally, no liquid cleaning agent should be used and cleaning the inside of a computer case should be done once in every three to six months.

Software-related cleaning, on the other hand, is equally important to keep a computer running smoothly and problem-free. Regardless of the operating system—be it a Windows 7 or the still highly popular Windows XP—maintaining the software part of a computer is important. The “dirt” that should be cleaned in software cleaning usually comes from the accumulation of unnecessary files and shortcuts, programs that have been intentionally or accidentally deleted, viruses and other malware, spyware, keyloggers, registry errors, and other system-compromising elements.

Viruses, worms, trojans, adware, spyware, keyloggers, and other malware should be properly removed. There are various freeware tools available to do this. It’s just important to make sure that the malware-removal tool used has an updated threat detection database to be able to detect and eliminate the most recent malware. If installing a malware-removal tool is not possible, having the hard disk scanned by another computer or by a web-based malware remover can be an option.

Permanently deleting unwanted and unnecessary files is also another step in cleaning a computer. A hard disk that is about to be filled to its full capacity can contribute to a computer’s poor performance. Hence, the recycle bin has to be regularly emptied. Unused shortcuts, duplicate files, unnecessary programs, rarely played games, and backups that are no longer needed should be deleted. Freeing up disk space coupled with disk defragmenting can help optimize a computer.

Additionally, registry errors should also be addressed to avoid computer operation problems and responsiveness issues. There are a number of free registry cleaners available online and they can help solve registry problems without the need to manually tinker with the Windows registry. Caution, nonetheless, should be observed in using a registry cleaning software. Backups should be made before deleting registry entries that are identified as errors to have a restore appoint and avoid permanent system damage.

Doing the procedures to clean a computer is not very simple but is doable for almost anyone who knows how to use a computer. As long as instructions are properly followed and prudence is observed, anyone can say “I can clean my computer on my own.” However, there are no assurances that online tutorials for DIY computer cleaning are appropriate and reliable. The Internet has an abundance of blogs and sites put up solely for ad revenues without regard for the accuracy of information being published. Many free software online are also riddled with adware and spyware. Identifying which is reliable and which can be harmful is not an easy task. Fortunately, online computer technicians, PC support, or troubleshooting assistants are available to help those who are unsure about how to clean their computers properly.