Over time, even the most powerful computers slow down. Cluttered files, hidden trackers, and everyday wear can affect performance and put your privacy at risk.
The good news? A few simple maintenance tricks can restore speed and keep your data secure.
Defragment for smoother performance
As you use your computer, files on your hard drive often get scattered in different locations, a process known as fragmentation. This can make your system work harder to find and open those files, slowing it down. Defragmenting your hard drive reorganises these files, so they’re stored in order, allowing your computer to run more efficiently.
You don’t need to defragment daily, once a month is enough to keep your system healthy. Keep in mind that this applies mainly to traditional hard drives (HDDs). If you’re using a solid-state drive (SSD), defragmentation isn’t necessary and can even shorten its lifespan.
Clean up to boost speed
Temporary files, unused downloads, and system junk can quietly pile up in your storage over time, eating away at valuable space and slowing down your device.
The built-in Disk Cleanup tool in Windows is a quick and reliable way to deal with this clutter.
Run Disk Cleanup at least once a month to remove unnecessary files, like temporary downloads, cached system files, and items in your Recycle Bin. Not only does this free up space, but it also helps your computer perform more smoothly.
Clear cookies to protect your privacy
When you visit websites, small data files known as cookies are stored in your browser. Many are harmless, helping sites remember your login information or preferences. Others, however, track your browsing behaviour for advertising or analytics purposes.
To keep your online activity more private, clear your browser cookies every couple of months. Most modern browsers make this easy to do in the settings or privacy menu. Regularly clearing cookies ensures that trackers don’t follow you across multiple websites.
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your PC running like new. Defragment your hard drive, clear out clutter, and manage your cookies to protect your privacy.
These small but effective steps will not only extend the life of your computer but also give you a smoother, faster and safer experience every day.