Free up space on the hard drive:
Check that the hard drive has at least 500 MB of free space for various temporary files and Windows swap file. Remove unneeded files and programs to free up space. The lack of enough free space will cause the computer to slow down or lock up. This problem is more common with older computers with limited space on the hard drive.
Improve system performance using MSCONFIG:
The MSCONFIG utility is only available for users of Windows 98, 98SE, ME and XP. Type MSCONFIG in the run line to access this utility and select the startup tab. To prevent programs from running automatically at when the computer starts, uncheck the box next to a program in the startup list. Programs such as Scanreg, Systray, antivirus software, and firewall software should be left running in the background. This link provides information to figure out what programs are listed in the startup tab.
Protection against viruses:
The most common problem that our SIG encounters with member computers is virus infection. The best defence against virus infection is to keep antivirus software updated. Virus definitions should be updated at least once a week. Run a complete virus scan on your computer after you update.
The PC Upgrade Troubleshooting SIG recommends the AVG antivirus program to protect your computer from viruses. Both the program and updates are FREE for residents of North America. The AVG antivirus program can be downloaded here. A very good FREE online virus scan can be found at TrendMicro HouseCall. The AVERT Stinger is a very useful downloadable program that can detect and remove many common viruses from an infected machine.
Cleanup the hard drive:
The easiest way to clean up the hard drive and improve system performance is to use the Windows disk cleanup, scandisk, and defrag utilities. These utilities can be found by clicking Start, Programs, Accessories, and System Tools. If the drive has not been defragmented for several months, defragmentation may take several hours. Use these utilities at least once every two weeks.
A more thorough procedure than Windows Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary files saved by Windows can be performed using a small free program called CCleaner that can be downloaded here. When downloading CCleaner, download the slim version that is only in English and does not come with the Yahoo toolbar.
Reinstalling Windows:
Reinstalling Windows on a computer is a very common event for a computer user. Reinstalling the operating system is necessary when replacing a failed hard drive, upgrading to a larger hard drive, or replacing a corrupt version of the operating system. This link provides a detailed procedure for reinstalling Windows 98/ME.
Reinstaling Windows 2000/XP requires that the computer can boot from the CD-ROM. The partitioning and formatting of the drive are done from the CD rather than a Windows startup boot floppy. The following link provides a detailed procedure for a clean install of Windows XP (The procedure for Windows 2000 is virtually identical).
General driver problems:
Check that the device has been recognized by Windows and functioning properly by using Windows Device Manager. In Windows 9X and ME, Device Manager can be found by right clicking the desktop My Computer icon, selecting properties in the drop down menu, and then selecting Device Manger. In Windows 2000/XP, Device Manager can be found by right clicking the desktop My Computer icon, selecting properties in the drop dowm menu, clicking the Hardware tab, and then clicking Device Manager. A problem with a Device is shown in Device Manager when either a yellow exclamation point or question mark is shown next to the suspect device.
The easiest way to correct many problems with a device is to either uninstall driver and reinstall according to the manufacturer’s instructions or download and install an updated driver from the manufacturer’s web site. Problems with device drivers can also result from viruses. Make sure to update antivirus software and run a complete virus scan.
Modem problems and HALNet connection troubleshooting:
Use Device Manager to determine that the modem is recognized by Windows and is functioning properly. Reinstalling or updating the driver can correct many modem problems.
Viruses can sometimes cause modem connection problems. Make sure to update and run antivirus software.
Verify that the ISP connection has been setup properly in the Windows Dial up Network folder; this link shows a step-by-step procedure for verifying a HALNet connection.
This link describes several procedures to check that the modem is working and able to communicate.
Many connection problems result from the use of low cost and less reliable modems called software control modems. Overall conection reliability can be improved by using a internal hardware control modem card or an external modem that connects to the serial port. The following link provides additional information about buying a reliable modem.