PC Tuneup Procedures

[McGuire]

What entails tuning-up a PC?
Using Windows XP for example, my thinking is: A) do error checking, defrag, and disk cleanup on the hard drive, B) run a virus scan and spyware, C) check if there's enough memory, and D) check for Window's updates and device drivers.
Is there anything else? Are there basic procedures that a tech follows?

[Allan]

My procedure(s):
1) AV always resident (I use Kaspersky)
2) SpywareBlaster installed and updated weekly (passive spyware protection)
3) Weekly scans with either Super AntiSpyware or MalwareBytes
4) Weekly defrag of all drives
5) Monthly scans with AV
6) Windows update notification ON - and always install all security updates (others are optional)
7) NEVER install device driver updates from Windows Update and only update from OEM websites when there is a reason to update. Otherwise, leave well enough alone.
8 ) Run chkdsk /r from Recovery Console if and when needed or every 3-6 months or so.
9) Open case and blow out dust every 3-6 months or as needed

And most important - not for "tuneup" but for peace of mind and protection: Create a disk image of my system partition twice a week and store off-disk.

[McGuire]

Thanks Allan.
I printed your list and will follow.

[Allan]

McGuire - that's just my list and my opinion. I'm sure there'll be others here too. I'm certainly flattered that you want to follow my procedures, but I neither claim nor think they are the only options. Keep checking this thread and pick and choose what you feel are the best - and most appropriate for you - from each post.

[patio]

And most important - not for "tuneup" but for peace of mind and protection: Create a disk image of my system partition twice a week and store off-disk.

The most important and least listened to step...