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Internet & Computing

	Hardware		Gaming		Security
•	VoIP - explained.	•	Nintendo Wii	•	Internet Security
•	PCs - What to look for?	•	Playstation 3	•	Chat room safety
•	Bluetooth & Internet	•	Xbox 360	•

Help your computer work better for you

Here are ten top tips that will help you keep your PC running as smoothly as possible.

• Clean up your hard disk
• Defragment your hard disk

• When you delete files, they go into the ‘Recycle Bin’. If you clear this out regularly, those unwanted files won’t take up valuable space on your hard disk.

• Hard disks can get filled up, which means you can run out of valuable space for new files.
  If you’ve got a recent version of Windows XP, you can use the built-in ‘Disk Cleanup’ tool to, for example, delete files and folders that you no longer need.
  

• Defragmenting your hard disk regularly should help prevent your computer running slowly.
  If you’ve got a recent version of Windows XP, you can use the built-in ‘Disk Defragmenter’.
  

• By giving your PC more memory you can increase your PC’s ability to run programs and software so it can do more for you. This is an easy way to upgrade your computer, and make more use of what’s available on the internet with your broadband service.
  

• Use a router rather than modem.
• Connect your router permanently to your master phone socket (rather than to any extension phone socket).
• Avoid using extension phone leads.
• If you must use extension wiring, keep it short as possible, use copper rather than aluminium extension leads, and route the leads to avoid areas of electrical interference.
• Preferably connect your router or modem to your computer(s) via wireless or Ethernet cable (rather than via your internal phone wiring).
  

• If you use microfilters (one for each telephone socket on the broadband line where you have equipment plugged in), you’ll experience fewer connection problems with your broadband service.
  

• It’s best to position your computer within easy reach of a telephone socket, so you can connect directly using the line cord provided with your broadband equipment.

• If you’re using a wireless connection, remember not to put it near anything that causes electrical interference or near anything that has a metallic surface (e.g. a mirror).

• If you’re using a wireless connection, position your router in a central location in your home. If it’s against an outside wall, you’ll get a weak signal on the other side of your home. It’s best to keep it away from walls and off the floor, too.