Clean up your computer

When was the last time you cleaned up your computer?  It's time, isn't it?

It's quick and easy. It will take you 20 minutes and you'll be better off for it.

Turn it off, then wipe the keyboard, the monitor and your mouse with a soft dusting cloth. Next, double check that your wires are all still in proper working order. Chewed or frayed wires can spell disaster. Nothing like frying your hard drive to give you a good dose of off-line reality.

Next, with the computer on, go through your e-mail box. Delete, delete, delete.  Then don't forget to delete your "trash" bin too. Are there any old files you can afford to delete? What about photos? Instead of keeping 15 out takes in addition to the 1 photo you cherish, consider keeping just the one you love.

When was the last time you backed up your files to an external hard drive, or transferred some of your favourite photos to a DVD?  If you don't think you have the time, or the need to do this, simply consider how you would feel if you lost them.

Lastly, if you're on Facebook or other file sharing social networks, consider spending a couple minutes to delete files and update your security settings/privacy there as well.

When was the last time you changed your passwords?  That's not a bad idea either.

Time to run your virus checker. What... no virus checker?  Time to download Norton, or buy something from your local office supply store.   Your operating software probably also comes with a "disc cleanup" or  a setting to maximize your space....time to run that as well.

Gotta keep the machine running clean. What would you do without it?