To keep your computer running efficiently, periodically clean it out. This means eliminating viruses and spyware, deleting programs that are unnecessary and defragmenting it. Performing these tasks will help it run faster and operate more smoothly, and will prevent it from crashing.

Spyware And Viruses

One of the main causes for computers to slow down or crash is spyware or viruses. These may result from downloading music files, opening emails from unknown entities, and opening advertisements from from pop-up screens. These can destroy your computer, so filter out any infections with an anti-virus and anti-spyware program. There are plenty of programs you can download from the Internet for free or for a small fee. AVG is one of the most popular anti-virus programs and it is totally free. Avast Home and Comodo are a couple of anti-virus programs that work very well and are also free. Adaware and Counterspy are great for removing spyware but do charge a fee for the programs. You may also purchase them at a retail outlet that specializes in electronics and computers. Run these programs at least once or twice a week to expunge viruses and/or malware.

Delete Useless Programs

It is easy to allow programs to build up after several downloads. While many of these are not being used, they continue to take up space, causing your computer to slow down. You can begin deleting them by going to the "Start" button, clicking on your Control Panel and choosing "Add/Remove Programs." This will give you a list of everything installed on your computer. You can select programs you do not use and click the "Remove" button. This will uninstall the program and free up space.

Defragmentation

Defragmenting your computer will rearrange files on your hard disk in a way that allows them to be accessed more efficiently. Windows has a Disk Defragmentation program. Click the "Start" button, choose "All Programs," click "Accessories," then "System Tools," and then "Disk Defragmenter." This will help organize files that have been acquired over a period of time. It may take a few hours to complete this program depending on how many files you have, but it is well worth the effort.

Source:

Microsoft: Restore Your Computer's Performance with Windows XP

WebTechGeek.com: Clean Up & Free Up your Computer Hard Drive Steps!