Computer Clean Up Tools Blog

Sep 4, Did you buy a Toshiba Laptop in the past 12 months?

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 05:55:12 GMT

If you bought a Toshiba laptop for $600 to $800 between August of 2009 and August 2010, there is a chance that your computer has an overheating problem. If it is one of these models, Satellite T135, Satellite T135D or Satellite ProT130, then you need to continue reading. How to Correct the Problem.

Download the update (BIOS revision) to correct the problem from the Toshiba website. Scroll down to "Resolution" and click the appropriate "hot link" for your machine. It may automatically fix the problem. That is the simple and convenient solution.

But, if after you download this update and it finds that a harness failure is occurring, it will disable your external power. Your power supply will be cut off. In other words, you won't be able to use the power cord to run your computer!

You will then need to contact the Toshiba call center to set up a warranty repair. This repair work is free of charge, but you cannot use your computer in the meantime. You can use the remaining juice in your battery to save any open files and then, shut down your computer. Your best option would be to schedule an appointment with the repair center before you download this update. Then, a couple of hours before your appointment, download the update. If it corrects the problem, just call and cancel your appointment. (Check to see if they have a cancellation policy and adjust accordingly.) By preparing ahead of time, you can minimum the downtime of your computer.

Sep 3, What is Malware?

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:31:19 GMT

It is the general term for any kind of destructive software. Virus, Trojan Horse, Computer Worm, and Spyware all fall under this catagory. It's any software program that's design to harm your computer. If you have used a computer for any length of time, you realise the damage that can be done by these programs.

Sep 2, What is a Computer Worm?

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:37:07 GMT

It is a destructive program that enters your computer system through security holes and openings. It will cause your computer to slow down or even become unuseable.

It's like a thief who will find an open window to easily enter your house and steal from you.

It's like a running back in football who looks for the openings or holes in the opposing team and goes through them

It's like driving in heavy traffic. You find the open lane and use it.

Sep 1, What is a Trojan Horse?

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:28:04 GMT

It's a software program that appears to be useful and beneficial, but it's not! When you open it up, your personal information is accessed and sent to a hostile source.

Aug 31, What is Spyware?

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 06:06:22 GMT

It's taking information off a computer without the user's consent or knowledge. It's stealing.

It's like a robber entering your house while you are asleep or gone, and taking everything valuable.

Aug 30, What is a Computer Virus?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 05:42:08 GMT

It is a small software program that is created to interfere with the normal operation of your computer. Examples:

It's like dropping a rock in your blender while it is running.

It's like putting water in the gas tank of your car and driving it.

It's like running out in the middle of a football field while they are playing a game.

It's like screaming at the top of your lungs while a minister is preaching at church.

Aug 29, Best Way to Protect your Computer

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 20:14:20 GMT

Maybe, you use your computer mostly for writing papers or looking at pictures. You don't need to be connected to the internet to do these things. Most of the trash that accumulates on your computer comes from being online. Disconnect it! Start>Connect to. Right click your network connection and click "Disconnect". If you use dialup or DSL, unplug your phone line to your computer. Viruses, Worms, Spyware can't get to your computer if there isn't an open doorway to it.

Aug 24, Using a computer without a mouse or keyboard

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:32:51 GMT

Development of computers without the need for a mouse or keyboard are in the near future.

Aug 24, Computers, Cars, and 2010

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:20:09 GMT

Ever wonder what it would be like to have a computer in your car? Ford has gone digital.

Aug 24, How much electricity is your computer using?

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:07:41 GMT

If you are looking to save money, here is an easy way to do it, especially if your computer is on all the time.

Aug 23, Computer Software Programs

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:45:12 GMT

Find useful computer software programs for the home user here.

Aug 21, "Clean Install" your computer

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 18:05:31 GMT

I have changed this section to make it easier to understand and follow the steps to complete this task. This is a valuable process to use when your computer needs an "overhaul." Rather than buy a new computer, you may be able to cleanup your old one and continue to use it.

Aug 20, Result of a Slow Computer

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:05:53 GMT

Have you ever wanted to inflict damage on your computer when it was moving at a snails' pace? You are not alone! (Check the video at the end of the article.)

Aug 20, Microsoft Security Essentials

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:44:34 GMT

Just a simple reminder. Run your full scan every so often. You never know when you may pick up a virus or spyware lurking on a website. I ran mine today and found 2 severe threats! It's a lot easier to deal with them now rather than after they have begun screwing up your computer. Just click and the threats are removed. It can't be any simpler than that.

Aug 20, Cannot Connect to the Internet

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 04:04:20 GMT

What steps to take when you cannot connect to the internet.

Aug 20, Clean Windows Install

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 01:24:09 GMT

This is the procedure for a clean Windows install of Windows 7.

Aug 20, Computer Memory

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:58:10 GMT

How much memory do you need? If your computer has less than 1 GB, you will see a dramatic increase in speed. Most XP and older versions of Vista fit into this catagory. Anywhere between 128 and 500 MB's is the norm. Any increase at this level will speed up your computer's multi-tasking ability and improve playback of video. If you decide to add memory, it would be cost-effective to add the highest amount per module. For example, if your computer has 500 MB's, your options could be to buy a module with another 500 MB's or one with 1 GB of RAM. The price of 500 MB's is $23. For 1 GB, it is $27. Buy the larger one and get twice the memory at less than half the price.

Aug 19, Bios Settings

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 05:37:43 GMT

Knowning how to access the bios settings of your computer can help you troubleshoot many problems.

Aug 18, Tablet Computers

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 05:39:39 GMT

Students may opt for these new tablet computers. They are designed to be portable with a long battery life. At $300, they are affordable by most everyone. Home users may find these machines useful as well. The ability to use your computer away from home will make your life easier and more productive. Most laptops will only last for a couple of hours. 10 Hours of battery life will give you plenty of time to complete quite a bit of your work before you need to charge it.

Aug 17, Upgrading to Windows 7 with Zinstall

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 03:26:19 GMT

If you are planning to use Zinstall XP7 to move to Windows 7, you need to have at least 20 GB's of free space on your hard drive. Once your XP programs and setting are installed in Windows 7, you will be able to delete XP off your computer completely and regain that space on your hard drive.

Aug 15, Windows Easy Transfer

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 19:47:43 GMT

Windows Easy Transfer is a necessary component to make the transition to Windows 7.

Aug 13, Belarc Advisor

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 05:16:53 GMT

Belarc Advisor is a handy tool that lists the hardware and software installed on your computer.

Aug 12, Secunia Users

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:38:18 GMT

Hopefully, all of you are using this valuable tool to protect and secure your computer. Adobe flash player and Adobe Air need to be upgraded if you use these programs. In the toolbox, use the Solution Wizard to update these programs. If the change isn't recorded by Secunia, you may need to reload the interface. Just right click the icon in the taskbar and then hit "Reload Interface." You can download and install the updated versions now or just wait till you get to a webpage that asks if you would like to install it.

Aug 11, Is your Computer Protected?

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:06:48 GMT

The amount of Malware is continuing to increase every day. If you don't have good protection, you will end up with a virus which will slow you down. The best answer for home computer users is Microsoft Security Essentials. It's free and it works.

Aug 11, Best USB Flash Drive

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:14:43 GMT

Here is one of the best USB flash drive for the home computer user.

Aug 10, It's Update Tuesday

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:23:17 GMT

Microsoft releases patches and updates today. Make sure your computer installs these important updates. This is the best and easiest way to keep your computer running smoothly. Start>Control Panel>System and Security>Windows update. Click "Check for updates" in the left hand column and install all critical updates and optional updates that are important too. (New definitions for Microsoft Security Essentials.)

Aug 8, Windows 7

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 23:53:40 GMT

Microsoft's best operating system yet...Windows 7

Aug 8, Norton products, good or bad?

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 07:08:32 GMT

Norton is a well-known company that sells internet security software. You may recognize their logo because it was on your desktop when you bought your computer. Could they be selling products that have adverse affects on your computer?

Aug 6, Problems with streaming video

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 06:00:45 GMT

Here is a simple tip to optimize your computer while playing videos. Start>Control Panel>System and Security>Power Options. Set to "High Performance." This will maximize your computer's power output. It should help with the continual stopping and stuttering of your videos.

Aug 5, What you need to know when buying a new computer

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 04:30:17 GMT

Buying the right computer is based on the big three; hard drive, processor, and RAM. If you get these items correct, it will make your computing experience productive and enjoyable.

Aug 4, Microsoft Emergency patch release

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 04:03:34 GMT

If you don't have your computer set to automatically download and install critical updates, you need to add this emergency patch just released by Microsoft. Start>Control Panel>System and Security>Windows update. Click "Check for updates" in the upper left hand column and install this important update.

Aug 3, Protect your Computer now, not later!

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 05:03:45 GMT

The Computer Maintenance Checklist is the most important section of this website. If you use these 9 maintenance tips, your computer will give you many years of trouble-free service.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to secure and protect your computer.

You don't have to find the Best software program(s) to use on your computer.

You don't need a lot of computer knowledge to keep your computer running well.

You don't need to pay someone else to download and install all the various software programs so your computer won't crash and burn.

You can do it yourself with the help of Computer Clean Up Tools. Don't put off what you can easily do now. Waiting till later may be too late!

Aug 2, Upgrading your Hard Drive?

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 01:12:41 GMT

It was my daughter's 21th birthday so I decided to give her a 500GB hard drive. She had filled up her 100GB drive quite awhile ago. I also bought her an external hard drive enclosure and software to move her data to the new drive. It turned out to be a simple process. I just downloaded the software, attached the new hard drive to her computer via the cable that came with the enclosure, and followed the prompts of the software. That was it! It was that simple. The process took about an hour and 15 minutes. After the transfer of data was complete, I just installed the new hard drive into her computer. We checked the space available and found that she now has more than enough room for all her photos, video, music, etc.

Jul 31, Tips for Buying Computers on Craigslist

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 14:12:09 GMT

Do shop on Craigslist? Here are some guidelines to use when looking for a "cheap" computer.

Jul 31, Make somebody happy! Donate your old computer.

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 14:04:16 GMT

These events are happening all over the USA. In fact, I will be dropping off some old and unneeded electronic equipment today at a free electronic disposal site. If you have time, watch the video. It shows you what is done with your equipment and how it is dispersed to needy people. You can make a huge difference in our environment as well as influence the well-being of others.

Jul 31, Updates for Microsoft Security Essentials

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 02:33:40 GMT

A couple of updates are available for MSE. Check your updates manually. Start>Control Panel>System and Security>Windows Update. In the left hand column, click "Check for updates". Install any update for MSE. It may be listed under "Optional updates". A little extra work will keep your computer safe and well protected. What is MSE? Find it here.

Jul 30, Give your eyes a break.

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:16:16 GMT

Staring at a computer screen all day can have a detrimental effect on your eyes. Make use of the 20-20-20 rule as mentioned here. You want to be able to see after you retire don't you?

Jul 29, Microsoft Office 2003 & 2007

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 04:19:49 GMT

Do you have any questions about the use of Microsoft Word 2007? Here are some manuals that will help you understand and use the program. It probably has more information than you need, but it's all here. Just scan through it till you find what you want. Take what you need. It's free. This opportunity may not last forever so you can download it now and store it on your hard drive, flash drive, or anywhere else.

Jul 28, Upgrade your Laptop Hard Drive

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 05:36:52 GMT

Are you looking to increase the size of your hard drive? Have you thought about how you will transfer all your data to the new drive? If you think about it too much, you may decide to just "forget it" and make due with what you have now. I am buying my daughter a brand new 500GB hard drive for her birthday. She has a boatload of videos on her laptop. So, how am I going to transfer all her data to the new hard drive? Will I have to spend all weekend doing it? I hope not. I have found a product that is supposed to do it quickly and easily. After I test it out, I will share my results with you in a week or 2. Stay tuned...

Jul 27, Desktop or Laptop?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:18:52 GMT

This is a great article giving the basic differences between a desktop and laptop. If you are looking to buy a computer, this will help you make the right choice.

I like having a larger monitor when I use my computer.

My wife uses my desktop when she has a lot of typing. She says it is a lot easier with my larger keyboard.

I would rather use a mouse rather than the touchpad on my laptop.

By the way, I also have a laptop devoted to my business. How often do I use it? Hummmm. I think maybe a couple of days over the past 6 months!!!

Only you can decided which machine will be best for your particular situation. If you plan ahead, you will be happier in the long run with your choice of computers, desktop or laptop.

Jul 27, Run the Secunia scan every week.

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 05:45:52 GMT

One of the best ways to protect your computer is to keep it updated. Windows update is for your windows programs. You need a separate program for your third party programs. Secunia is the program which meets this need. Run this scan every week for the best protection.

Jul 25, Disk Cleanup & Defragmenter

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 18:22:03 GMT

These are 2 vital tools to use on a regular basis. They each do a different job in cleaning.

Disk Cleanup removes all the unwanted/unnecessary files.

Disk Defragmenter organizes all the data on your hard drive.

Run Disk Cleanup first, then Disk Defragmenter. You don't need to arrange files that you will delete from your computer. The order of operation is very important. They are found here: Start>All Programs>Accessories>System Tools.

Jul 24, Using the Help Desk

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 15:27:04 GMT

The Help Desk has been around for many years. It is no different today than when it first was used back in the old times. I hope you enjoy this spoof about the first IT help desk.

Jul 24, Microsoft Security Essentials

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 05:24:38 GMT

Have you run a full scan of Microsoft Security Essentials lately? I ran it today on my computer. While running this program, this notice appeared at the bottom of the page. 45 minutes lately when the scan was done, this page appeared. I clicked "Clean computer" and my machine was clean once again. MSE is a great and simple tool to keep your computer running well. You just have to use it in order for it to do its job. You can run the full scan anytime. If you continue to use your computer while the scan is running, it won't affect your work too much unless you are running high intensity programs. If it is a problem, take a break from your computer. Eat some food, go for a walk, play with your kids, walk the dog. You get the idea.

Jul 24, Fix Your Computer

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 03:16:42 GMT

There are many ways to fix your computer. You can do it yourself. You can take it to the computer repair shop. You can ask your techie friend(s). Or you might try this...

Jul 21, Refurbished Computer, Yes or No?

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:07:30 GMT

Should you even think of buying a refurbished computer? Aren't they just put together with leftover parts?

Jul 18, Follow-up from July 10 post

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 14:26:47 GMT

Remember? This was a company that takes old computers and refurbishes or recycles them. This was the outcome of that Saturday's event. Kudos to them!!!

Jul 18, Users of XP

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 04:58:55 GMT

I don't mean to beat a dead horse, but you must do something to protect your computer if it is running XP service pack 2. It has been less than a week and there has been an increase in attacks on these XP computers. It will only get worse!

Jul 15, What...Windows 8?

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:19:53 GMT

Windows 7 hasn't even been out on the market for a year yet and there's already plans for Windows 8. Don't worry. It will be a couple years before Microsoft releases a new operating system. Technology keeps moving forward. There is no stopping it. Here are some of the amazing things that can be done with Windows 8...

Jul 14, Desktop or Laptop for home use?

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 14:13:17 GMT

If you are looking to buy a computer for home use, here is a great article to help with your decision.