1. MS Config When Windows starts up, it also starts a various number of "other" programs...like McAfee, sound drivers, video drivers, etc. Some of these you want, but others, you may not want...like AOL IM, advertising, pop-ups, etc. Microsoft (MS) provides a program named msconfig that can be used to turnoff many of the unwanted programs. This is usually the most important and sometimes the only program needed to "clean up" a computer. This is a must do!!!
To run MSConfig, callup the run program window by pressing the Windows Key and tapping the "R" key. Then type in "msconfig" and hit OK. Notes: If you don't know what a program is, Google it. If something doesn't work on boot up, you can always go back and add that item back that seems like it's it. That's only half of the process...the other half is in the StartUp tab. Again, uncheck all programs that are starting up...leaving the anitvirus and whatever else you feel you want to start when the computer starts. Note, in Windows 10, you'll need to click on a link there to open another window to disable those programs (by right-clicking on them). If you haven't ever run MSConfig yet, you just might be unchecking 20 to 30 programs from starting up.
To get rid of viruses, install either McAfee or Norton's programs.
Both these programs costs $40 or so each year. Be sure to get just the antivirus version, not the Internet version.
Notes:
However, there are free antivirus program that I now have good experience with that seem to work well.
AVG
Avast
All critical updates must be downloaded and installed!!!!
In Windows 7, to get the Automatic Updates working, look in the Control Panel for "Windows Updates." Either set it for a time every day that you know the computer will be turned on, or you can do what I do, set it to download the updates then notify me they're ready to be installed (via a gold shield on the right side of the task bar).
Updates for Windows 10 are already set to automatic...no worries with Windows 10.
This is all I have for now for cleaning up your computer and keeping it in tip-top shape. As you use your computer, you'll continue to accumulate more unwanted programs. I run MSConfig almost weekly.
I rarely run Spybot and Ad-Aware anymore. MS-Config seems to be enough.
Good luck.....
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