Cleaning up a computer and fixing problems can often empty your wallet if you take them to repair shops or call in tech support. Many computer problems can be fixed at home for free. Free applications and even hardware can be found to repair most common computer problems. Typically, you will pay at least $75 for someone to even diagnose your problem. However, you can repair virus infections, upgrade your own hardware, speed up your system, and find drivers for old hardware. Over the life of your computer, you can save hundreds by repairing your problems for free.
Instructions
1. Download a reliable free anti-virus software package. AVG Anti-Virus and Avast Home Edition are available for free. These programs scan for and remove viruses on your system and offer free updates for the life of the product. You can remove existing viruses and prevent more infections in the future by running weekly or daily scans.
2. Check for driver updates before purchasing new hardware. Driver issues normally occur after an operating system or software upgrade. Visit the hardware manufacturer's website to check for new drivers. When you download the driver, installation instructions will be provided on the website or as a text file with the downloaded file.
Driver updates can be found for video cards, sound cards, most external devices such as MP3 players and printers, and monitors. Always check for drivers before upgrading hardware since drivers are free.
3. Search for free computer parts to upgrade or replace bad hardware. FreeCycle groups allow you to search local listings and place wanted ads for the parts you need. Everything listed is completely free. Craigslist is also a good place to search for free parts.
Check with local companies to see if they are looking to give away old computers or spare parts. Many companies give away computers and parts after upgrading.
4. Seek free help on installations and upgrades. Friends and relatives will normally help you out for free.
Check with your local college or high school to see if they have a computer repair or troubleshooting program. Students can use your computer to practice their skills. You get free computer repair while the students receive hands-on experience.
5. Clean up your computer. Run CCleaner (see Resources). This is a free program that will delete temporary Internet files, cookies, and temporary application files. These can bog down your system and eat valuable space. CCleaner can also clean up unused registry entries from uninstalled programs. Be sure to save the recommended backup of your registry that CCleaner provides. Delete old files and uninstall programs you no longer use.
6. Use your computer warranty. Any computer still under warranty can be sent in to the manufacturer for free. As long as the problem is hardware or virus related, your problem is covered.
Tags: your computer, your system, away computers, check drivers, Check with, computer problems, computer repair
