Windows Vista comes with impressive Graphics User Interface or GUI such as Flip 3D and Aero interface. Windows Vista also features improved security. However, there are several ways you can get even better performance from Windows Vista, even without calling in a computer repair technician.
1. Get rid of unwanted startup programs
You can improve performance of your Windows Vista OS by disabling unwanted or unused startup programs. These programs feed on the resources of the OS and it is particularly important to disable them if you have bought your Vista OS with software programs incorporated. You should only let critical software programs such as antispyware and antivirus to run on startup. You can disable these utilities using the System Configuration utility.
2. Increase your RAM
You can optimize performance on Windows Vista by increasing your systems RAM or Random Access Memory. If you are upgrading from Windows XP, which can comfortably run on a RAM of 512MB, you need at least 1 GB of ram for Vista. The recommended RAM for Windows Vista is 2 GB, especially if you are running graphical features.
3. Use ReadyBoost utility
You can use a ReadyBoost utility to make your computer think that more RAM is available. The ReadyBoost utility enables the computer to use a USB device or a chip containing flash memory to increase the system’s memory.
4. Install a graphics adapter
You should install a graphics adapter for optimum performance. A graphics adapter takes some of the graphics processing tasks away from the computer and this increases system performance. The graphics adapter should be Vista Premium Certified to avoid compatibility problems.
5. Disable unnecessary visual enhancements
A simple and effective way of optimizing is to disable unnecessary visual enhancements. Vista has many of these and they include such things as fading/sliding menus, shadows for mice menus and pointer, and animations during maximization and minimization of windows. These visual enhancements are appealing, but they slow down the computer. You can do this thorough the ‘Adjust Visual Effects’ link in the Control Panel.
6. Use the Cleanup utility of your OS
You should use the Cleanup utility for Vista for optimized performance. You should also use the Disk Defragmenter tool to optimize performance. This takes care of fragmented and unwanted files which can generate errors and even cause system crushes. You can schedule the defragmenting and the cleanup in Windows Vista.
7. Remove the Sidebar
One of the most prominent features in Windows Vista is the sidebar. This is an attractive feature, but it is not really necessary, especially if you have low RAM. You can remove it through the ‘Properties’ option under the side bar.
8. Disable aero interference
To improve performance in Windows Vista, consider disabling aero interference. This interface can be removed through the ‘Windows Color and Appearance’ option under ‘Performance’.
9. Regular scanning
You should scan the PC regularly for Malware such as Viruses, Trojan Horses, Spyware, Adware, and Worms. You should update the Antivirus regularly and you should initiate scans manually on a regular basis.
10. Seek remote computer support
To optimize performance on a computer running on Windows Vista, you should consider taking help of an expert computer repair professional. Expert advice is important because you will know what to do and what not to do to achieve optimum performance of your pc. You can also seek remote computer support offered by various companies such as fixit99.com, which offers 24x7 online computer repair services while you can watch your pc being repaired by US-based professionals. The computer repair services are offered for as low as $19.95. What else you can ask for?
"Copyright 2010 Fixit99.com, Mike Scherenberg. For more information or to view this original article, please visit http://www.fixit99.com
