Clean Up Week: When All Else Fails...

If you have been following the tips this week, you have probably freed up some space on your computer, fixed some errors, and disabled some programs that ran when you started your computer.  However, you may find that your computer still seems to be running slow.  When all else fails, there is one simple way to restore your computer to peak performance.

First, if you think your computer is running slow, you should always do a scan with your antivirus.  If that doesn't fix your problem, try running a second scan with a program like Malwarebytes or Hitman Pro.  If multiple antivirus scans don't catch anything, then your computer is probably suffering from operating system decay.

Operating system decay occurs over time as you use your computer.  While certain operating systems have worse records when it comes to decay, it is an inevitable part of using any operating system on any computer or device.  Fortunately, your operating system is software, and you can always put a fresh copy of your operating system on your computer!  This will restore your system to the way it was when you first took it out of the box, minus any slower performance due to wear on the physical equipment.

Before you begin, you need to realize that this will completely delete everything on your computer.  Make a backup of your Users folder on your C drive (this is where all items on your desktop and in the folders My Documents, My Pictures, etc. are stored.)  Also, make sure you have copies of any software on your computer, as these will be deleted, too.  Finally, I recommend running Magical Jelly Bean's Keyfinder and writing down any product keys that it locates.  Not only will this make the reinstallation process easier by consolidating all your keys in one place, but it will also be a lifesaver if you lost your key or the key sticker faded.

Now that you are ready to install a new copy of Windows, you need to figure out how to access the recovery partition.  Most computers have a recovery partition that can be accessed by pressing a certain key combination at startup.  Some also have software in Windows that can start the process.  To find out what you need to do, check your computer's documentation or look it up online.  At the beginning of the process, it may offer to save all your files for you.  I do not usually select this option because I want a completely fresh copy of Windows on my computer, not one that has information from the old installation on it.  If you do select this, make sure you still have a copy of your data in case something goes wrong.

If you are uncomfortable going through this process by yourself, most computer stores will be able to perform this for you at a reasonable price.  Call around to several stores in your area and check prices.