Computer spring cleaning
Working in Coalitions

I hope everyone has survived the Daylight Saving Time computer update panic of 2007. This should have been a reminder to all that our computers require constant care to keep them running correctly.

You can access patches that keep your computer and Microsoft programs current by going to http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate. You must use Internet Explorer to do Microsoft updates.

Some other TLC that can be given to our computers this time of year would be to cleanup the cache in our web browsers. For Internet Explorer 7 this means selecting Tools, Internet Options and on the General Tab select Delete under Browsing history, now Delete files for Temporary Internet Files. This will remove old copies of web pages you have viewed. On earlier versions of IE the option is on the General Tab to clear Temporary Internet Files and you need to check the offline files to cleanup the cache. FireFox has the option located under Tools, Options and select the Privacy Tab. Under Private Data you will find the Clear Now button.

In your e-mail programs you can empty the deleted files folder to finish taking out the trash. On the Desktop you can empty the Recycle Bin by Right Mouse Button clicking on it and select Empty Recycle Bin.

Take time to cleanup the computer case as well. With the computer turned off and unplugged use a vacuum to remove dust and lint from the air flow openings on the case. Pay special attention to the fan areas and the power supply.

Do not use a vacuum cleaner inside the computer case because of the danger of static electricity. Any cleaning done inside the case should be with compressed air or a can of compressed gas for dusting.

Now check your virus protection program and be sure it is up to date. You need to subscribe to an update program to stay current. If you need to renew please look at AVG from Grisoft (www.grisoft.com) as an option. The anti-virus software is excellent and the cost is for 2 years making them very price competitive. They also have a free version for home users.

—Tim Ennis