Computer upkeep-nothing lasts for ever

Do the days that your computer ran efficiently and without any hiccups seem like a lifetime ago? A bit like the first blush of romance, when even a horrible rainy day in London was viewed as a romantic day to sip endless cups of coffee and toast marshmallow. Well, the honeymoon soon ends and as things progress, this wonder machine becomes a money guzzling machine that seems to need constant computer repair and its various problems are difficult for you to understand; sounds bit like a marriage! Some systems bother us more than others but I haven't met a PC yet that has not suddenly turned moody and obstinate on its owners at some point.

How do I keep my system optimized and in good spirits?

System crashes, blinking screens and error message are among some of the common problems that users face. More serious problems can result in major data and information loss that are almost impossible to recover provided we even had the expertise at hand to recover the data. Only careful users who have backed up their data are safe as they have been regularly saving their data.

What most often causes these problems? Whether it is a sluggish system or error messages the problem most often can be found in the systems' registry. The registry is akin to our bodies' spinal cord; It's the backbone of our computer system. All the settings and options and preferences that we choose as users are all registered in the registry. It's like the central nervous system. An article I read recently described it as a central hierarchal database repository. A repository is typically where critical information resides; any problems here whether small or big can result in severe system crisis.

Therefore, the important task at hand is to ensure that this central repository is cleaned regularly and all errors are managed with speed and precision. Often multiple users on home computers can be a huge problem as one may not know what the other user is up to; multiple software downloads, installation and un-installation of applications, the list is endless. One user should take ownership for maintenance and upgrade issues.

Common Registry errors

Like in the case of Spyware, Adware and Virus, there are now tools (software) that can be easily installed and administered by user's independently to cleanse and repair their registry. As important information is stored in the registry, it is important that information is backed up regularly. Also registry defragmentation is critical as it maintains the health of your computer. Some software even comes with the added benefit of Spyware and virus removal. However, don't try and shop for the cheapest product rather looks at a recommended and known product.

It is difficult to say what actually causes errors in the registry; it could be anything from file downloads, incorrect installation of applications and or too many changes to system and network configurations. Unplanned and unnecessary software leads to the registry getting overburdened and subsequent malfunctioning. Often conflicts are created between software when handled by untrained users.

Keeping it together - good posture

Anything that is central to smooth functioning; be it a wife or the central nervous system has to be priority. Smooth functioning and correct posturing are critical. The registry is an area that requires a trained hand and solid tech support. Make sure that your tech support company has included it in your contract. Alternatively, the registry tools I mentioned earlier are known to be extremely efficient and effective. Play smart and save your self time and money by being vigilant about registry issues. A slow computer is a good indication that troubled times lie ahead. Good luck!

Joseph John is a technical expert with iYogi. iYogi a Computer, email errors support and technical support vendor is the winner of Red Herring Top 100 Award, helps. iYogi provides computer help, windows vista repair, computer support, Microsoft support, dell support, computer repair, computer tech support etc. by Microsoft Certified Technician.