Improve Windows XP System Performance

• Always keep current backups of important data to an external hard drive,
  CD or tape to prevent data loss such as digital photos, documents, etc.
• Add more System Memory if possible.
• Note: (If  your system ever fails, press F8 in the boot menu, Click Last known good configuration.)

1. Clear your Internet History:
   Microsoft Internet Explorer:
   Click Tools.
   Click Internet Options.
   Click Clear History.
   Click OK.
    
2. Remove old "Restore Points":
   Make sure your system is operating properly and stable first! (Totally booted up)
   There will be a brief period when you won't have a restore point.
   Click Start.
   Click Control Panel.
   Double-Click System.
   Click System Restore tab
   Click to add a checkmark in "Turn off System Restore on all Drives" box.
   Click Apply.
   When you are warned that all existing Restore Points will be deleted Click Yes to continue.
   Now turn the Restore Points back on by repeating above steps by un-checking box.
   (Note: You can pin a shortcut to your Start Menu for easy Restore Point access)
   To create the shortcut Click "Start".
   Click "All Programs".
   Click "Accessories".
   Click "System Tools".
   Right-Click "System Restore".
   Click "Pin to Start menu".
    
3. Clean your System:
   On the Desktop: Double-Click the "My Computer" icon.
   Right-Click "Local Disk (C:)".
   Click "Properties".
   Click "Disk Cleanup" and wait for report to show.
   Check all boxes unless you prefer to uncheck "Compress old files".
   Click "OK"
   Answer "Yes" to: "Are you sure you want to perform these actions?"
   When complete Click "OK"
   Repeat for other hard drives, if any.
    
4. Defragment Hard Drives:
   On the Desktop: Double-Click the "My Computer" icon.
   Right-Click "Local Disk (C:)".
   Click "Properties".
   Click the "Tools Tab".
   Click the "Defragment Now.." button.
   Exit when finished.
   Repeat for other hard drives, if any.
   Note: It is always a good idea to defragment hard drives before installing new large programs.