Ozarks Genealogical Society

Our New Year's resolution is to help our computers work better for our genealogical research. Let's look at cleaning out old files and programs, then organizing directories so we can find our data. We also want to keep our data safe by using anti-virus programs and frequent data backups.

1. Heat is the computer's worst enemy. Make sure the vent fans are not clogged with dust and debris. Turn off the computer, then unplug it. Use a vacuum cleaner.

2. Delete old or unused programs.
Control Panel -> Uninstall Program

3. Update programs you do use.
"Program" -> Help -> Check for Updates

4. Install Ccleaner.
http://www.ccleaner.com/ and download.
Double-click to install. "Un-check" some options.

5. Clean out old and temporary files.
Close all programs and run Ccleaner. Choose options.

6. Clean up the registry.
Ccleaner -> Registry -> Scan for issues

7. Limit the number of programs that start up automatically. However, if in doubt, leave it alone.
Ccleaner -> Tools -> Start Up

8. Organize directories for data such as documents, pictures, and music.
Start -> Computer will show your major directories. To add a sub-directory, right click on the directory and choose New -> Folder.

9. Protect your computer with anti-virus and firewall.
Microsoft Security Essentials
http://www.microsoft.com/Security_Essentials/

AVG Free http://free.avg.com/us-en/homepage

10. Back up your data! Store it away from your computer!

Windows: http://www.microsoft.com/protect/data/backup/about.aspx

Syncback software (free): http://www.2brightsparks.com/freeware/

Online backup: http://mozy.com/ Up to 2GB is free; unlimited for $5 month.

http://carbonite.com/ Unlimited for $55 per year.

Control Panel -> System and Security -> Backup and Restore