What is a utility program?

There are different types of utility programs but the type I am referring to here optimizes your PC's performance, checks for viruses and solves system problems easily. They can diagnoses and solve a wide range of Windows problems and automatically take preventive measures to avoid serious trouble. 

Do I need a utility program?

Personally, I am a great believer in using either McAfee or Norton SystemWorks. Some people complain that it can slow down your computer, but as long as you have a Pentium 333 you should be fine. I have heard of conflicts with Norton SystemWorks (the one I use) with some software, but I haven’t encountered any problems. For under $100 you can have the utility program monitor your system and tell you when to fix errors, defragment, run clean-up s. It can monitor installations of software and deletions. And yes, Norton does have a program for Mac users.

You need to do two things – First, make sure to read the manual so you can schedule clean ups and downloads on a regular automatic basis. Second, follow the basic instructions when it tells you to do so. This means saying OK when it asks a question.  Don't skip the section on making a back-up of your registry files.  These are very important if you are unable to open your operating system.

I recently discovered SiSoft Sandra, an highly recommended FREE 32-bit Windows system information and diagnostic utility. I have not used this program and can not vouch for its effectiveness. 

What do I do if I don't have a program?

Without a utility program of this sort, it is very important that you defragment your  own hard drive and perform a ScanDisk on a monthly basis. Both can be  found by opening My Computer. Right click on the C-drive and select  Properties and then the Tools tab. From here you can choose the Check Now or the Defrangment Now button.

By the way, defragmenting your hard drive can take up to a couple of hours.  To make the process run smoothly, be sure to close down any open applications and sign of of the internet.  Don't forget to turn-off your screen saver.  You can do the later by going into the Control Panel and clicking on the Display icon.  You will se the screen saver tab - go to it and change the settings.

Defragment your computer at least monthly.