Some of the best ways to make sure your system is running smoothly are the simplest. Here are some really easy tips that you can implement to make sure your computer is optimized and running at full capacity.

1. Avoid spyware.
This sounds easier than it is, but truthfully, if you’re cautious, you can reduce the risk of having spyware on your computer. Don’t visit sites you don’t trust. Don’t download .exe files unless you are absolutely sure they do not contain malicious code. When searching for sites, use Google since they will scan a site and let you know if it poses a threat.

2. Clean your registry.
Invest in a good registry cleaner. While it’s not a good idea to try to clean your registry yourself, investing in a good registry cleaner is a simple solution to most computer problems. All programs make entries in the registry file and over time this file can become huge and bloated. Old, uninstalled programs can leave behind “ghosts” or corrupted code within your registry. A good cleaner will remove these and help optimize your system.

3. Resist the urge to download.
While you may adore that picture your niece sent, do you really need to keep it on your computer? If you do, make sure you offload it to a cd or a disc and then delete it from your hard drive. You’d be surprised at how much junk we can accumulate over the years.

4. Set a date for spring cleaning your computer.
Even though it may not look dirty, chances are, you have programs you’re not using, files that are collecting virtual dust and other unnecessary bits of data. Periodically clean out your computer, saving anything important to disc. This is also a good time to clean out your browsing history and any temporary internet files you no longer need.

5. Clean out your email.
If you are using an email client to access your mail, you can accumulate a massive amount of data in a short time. Whether it’s attachments you don’t need or simply a sheer volume of messages, your computer can get really bogged down. Clicking delete on a message doesn’t really delete it from your hard drive. You’ll need to go in and automatically enter the trash folder in your mail program. This can clear up a lot of space and really help your system’s performance.

6. Defrag your hard drive.
If you are running Windows XP or a newer operating system, use the disk defrag tool to see if your system needs to be defragged. Make sure you back up any important data before you begin. This step can really keep your drive functioning well and will impact the performance of your entire computer.

Your computer can only run well if you take care of it. Optimization is not difficult, especially if you have the right tools. I highly recommend using a tool like RegCure (note: direct download link) to clear the junk off of your computer’s registry. Your computer is an investment and its not always easy to replace one. So take steps now to optimize your computer and you’ll be worry free in the weeks and months ahead.