One of the most popular TechRepublic resources has historically been the Ultimate Preventive Maintenance Checklist. Since its most recent update in October 2003, this list has been downloaded by some 13,000 TechRepublic members.
Now we think it may be time for another update–one that includes your suggestions for procedures that optimize PC performance, reduce equipment wear and tear, and head off potential degradation or system failures.
In its current incarnation, the checklist contains 29 items, ranging from file cleanup chores (removing old zip, tmp, and ~ files, emptying the Recycle bin) to checking connections to cleaning out the power supply and CPU.
But although it purports to be “ultimate,” the checklist could stand to be a little MORE ultimate–and that’s our mission here. We’d like to collect as many new items as possible so that we can build out the checklist to encompass all the essentials, from routing out spyware to keeping the registry in fighting shape.
What’s missing from our checklist? What details are lacking? What procedures and best practices do you faithfully employ to keep your PCs healthy? Please jump into the discussion with your recommendations. The next iteration of the Ultimate Preventive Maintenance Checklist will benefit greatly from your contributions!
Jody Gilbert
TechRepublic Editor