subject: How to Prevent and Fix Windows Errors Easily [print this page] How to Prevent and Fix Windows Errors Easily
It is much easier to prevent Windows errors than it is to fix Windows errors. Therefore, you should do everything in your power to stop errors from occurring. That way you won't have to see the annoying little things that slow down, shut down and freeze your computer. Here are some tips on how to avoid these problems so that you'll never have to worry about repairing them.
How to Shut Down Windows Correctly
Perhaps the most overlooked step to keeping a healthy computer is the simplest: shut down your computer every day! This shuts down programs that may be running in the background--programs you thought you shut off. It also gives your computer's circuits a chance to cool down.
Windows needs to shut down in a certain order to prevent errors. It's not a good idea to just hit the power switch on your computer or power strip. Always, without fail, turn off your computer by clicking Start, then selecting Log Off/Shut Down or Turn off Computer.
How to Remove Programs Correctly
Again, way back in the days when Basic and Pascal were the go to program languages, deleting via delete was not a big deal. However, with Windows came the Windows registry. This registry makes the computer user friendly, not to mention quicker and smaller. Therefore, you need to protect the registry by using the proper uninstall features.
Ideally, you will want to use the program's built-in uninstall feature. This will remove the unnecessary files and leave the shared files in tact.
If the program does not have an uninstall feature, then use the Windows Add/Remove Program (for older versions of Windows) or Uninstall Program (for Vista and Windows 7) feature. You can find the function by clicking Start -> My Computer or Computer -> Add Remove Program is on Sidebar of XP and Uninstall Program is on the top bar for Vista
Add Programs and Files from Legitimate Sources
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) transfers and unknown sites are notorious for having spyware, adware, viruses and all types of malware installed. Therefore, you should never download a file or program from these sites.
Most people do this unknowingly when they see a File Not Found error. They see that a random file is missing and then look it up to see what it is. Then, they see all these sites that offer free file downloads. At best, this will cause more errors. At worse, you can cause permanent computer damage or even have your identity stolen! You should only download the files from the original manufacturer or CD.
Keep Your PC Clean
PC cleaner software is there to help you keep your registry clean and functioning properly. Through no fault of your own, power surges, bad installations, and minor hiccups in installations can cause all kinds of errors. To keep these errors from building up into big problems, it is best to run PC cleaner software on a regular basis.
The best part of PC or registry cleaner software is that it will fix all versions of Windows errors and speed up your computer at the same time. In just two simple clicks, your computer can be error free and running like new.
