PC "Health"

For your office PC, the goal is simplicity. The more non-essential software you install, the more you increase the likelihood of problems with your PC, and the slower your PC will become.

Guidelines

• Never install "Beta" software, even if the source of the software is a reputable firm such as Microsoft.
  
  
• Install only programs you must use
  
  
• If you have more than 4 or 5 icons in your "System Tray", which is usually at the bottom right of your desktop, start removing non-essential programs and utilities, such as:
  • All types of "Instant Messaging" software
  • Real Player
  • Weather and Stock "Tickers"
  • Elaborate screen-savers that download new images from your Internet connection
  • Software that seems to exist just to put a company logo in your system tray
    
    
• Allow Microsoft Windows Update to automatically update your PC. When a "critical update" is available, an icon appears in your system tray. Depending on your PC's settings, you may have to click on the icon and allow installation to continue.

It is normal to have system-tray icons for:

• Virus-scanning software
• Microsoft ActiveSync
• Sound volume
• Network connections
• Notifying you that a critical update from Microsoft Windows Update is available or being downloaded