Monday, March 31, 2008

Cleaning up your software

Just as a tip...when I clean a computer, the first thing I do is go to the Control Panel and hit "add/remove" programs (for XP users that is).

I generally do a quick scan and see what looks like it should be there and what should not be there.

What should be there? Programs you have paid for or knowingly downloaded.

What shouldn't be there? Spyware programs!

You can easily tell a spyware program by 2 things.
1.) the word "search" is in the name of the program
2.) the program is very small in size (under 1 mb usually)

If you want to delete those little buggers, you can. Just a reminder that sometimes a removal of those spyware will take you to an internet site and require a download of a tool to uninstall it. Generally that is the safest way to go, follow the spyware instructions. Back in the day it was hard to remove the spyware, but today it's a big easier.

Sometimes the computer will require a reboot after removing. Make sure you watch for that window or option in a window because you may want to wait to reboot until you are done.

TIP...many "coupon" saving websites will download a tool, so if you're a coupon maniac, you may want to remember that those coupons you are cyber clipping is maybe adding spyware. Most people hate it when I remove that coupon tool, but it's really best for your computer.

If you have any questions about removing software, please feel free to email info@callthatgirl.biz or call for a quick free consultation. 612-865-4475