People constantly use desktops, both professionally and personally. But, like most people, you’re probably are not exactly an expert on these machines. That is all about to change; in the article that follows, you will read some information about desktop computers that will prove to be of help.

Be certain you have software that protects you against viruses. Without an antivirus program malicious software can find its way into your operating system. You don’t need to buy a desktop with malicious software that also makes the computer run slowly. Anti-virus protection programs exist to identify and eliminate threats to your computer security. You can find some useful anti-virus programs on the Internet that are free to use, while others are available for purchase.

A boot check can be implemented if you find your desktop operating slowly. MS Config can be run from the start menu. From there, check out what programs are starting every time the machine boots up. Find programs that you rarely use, and set them to not start on boot up. Your system will run quicker once you make this change.

Carefully choose the hardware you put into a computer you are building. The motherboard will have to fit the processor to work. Some RAM units don’t work with some motherboards. When purchasing your pieces, ensure cross compatibility. You can save yourself a lot of money, time and hassles when you build a desktop computer yourself.

Try to buy the desktop computer that you can afford with just the features that you need. It is not necessary to buy a machine that delivers more than you need. Be particular about the features you want and the different components that will serve your needs, so you can avoid spending too much money.

Dust the interior of your desktop every week to make sure the fan is working well enough to cool the components and keep it running at maximum efficiency. Typically, it’s simple to unscrew the case and take it off. Then, all you have to do is use a compressed air can to spray the dust away. Doing so will enable the fan to rotate at its optimum speed, and also keep your computer clean on its interior.

Prior to making your computer purchase, examine various reviews on reputable tech sits. This will give you a much better idea of what computer fits your needs.

To determine what kind of computer you need, write down what you want to do on it. The type you need depends on these tasks that you do regularly. If you like to play games a lot, what you need will differ from someone who just wants to check email and surf the web.

If you need to transfer sizeable video files, you should get a DVD optical drive with the computer. Frequently, less expensive computers that include only a CD drive are insufficient for multimedia files. DVDs offer much more space. Sure, it’s more money, but it’ll be a real help over the course of your desktop’s life.

Do you have the memory you need? The right amount of memory is important for computer use. Will you need a lot of space? Do you take a lot of pictures? If you do need to store a lot of data, you need to make sure that your computer has the memory to handle it.

If you want an energy-saving alternative, consider a mini PC. Mini-PCs don’t use much electricity, but have a good enough processor that you can accomplish tasks. This is a great choice if you do little more than read and send emails, surf the internet and create the occasional document.

In short, desktops might be prolific, but very few are very knowledgeable about them. You know more than the average man after reading this article. Use these suggestions to make sure you are getting a desktop that fits all your needs.