Tips For a Clean and Virus Free Computer

• Clean Your Computer Weekly - To keep your computer as clean as possible, it's important to delete your temp files, cookies and Internet history weekly. I added some screen prints below on how to do this for both Firefox and Internet Explorer.

• Empty your recycle bin weekly - When you delete your files, remember they aren't actually deleted. Instead, they are moved to the recyling bin. This includes delete of temp files. To empty the recycle bin, just right click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop and select "Empty Recycle Bin". This will also save space on your hard drive.
  
• Backup your important files everyday - Keep a flash drive handy for daily backup of important files. Whenever you make a change to a file, save a copy on your flash drive. If you work on a large amount of files each day, including images and videos, you may want to purchase an external hard drive for additional space.
  
• Be sure you have a good, up-to-date antivirus program - Invest in a good, reputable anti-virus program, and run live updates as often as necessary to make sure everything is up-to-date. Be sure to upgrade as needed each year to make sure you have the latest version of the software.
• Always be sure the sites you visit are safe and reputable - Check sites to be make sure they are safe. Some websites, especially those which a lot of free offers and free programs to download may contain harmful viruses. One site you can use to check if sites have a safety rating is: http://safeweb.norton.com/ ).
• Don’t open any email from unknown senders or spam email which may contain viruses - If a friend forwards you an funny email and it has an executable file in it or any type of attachment, beware that it could contain a virus, so don’t open it. If you receive an email from someone you don't know, be careful about opening unknown emails. If it’s not an email that you are expecting, delete the email.
• Keep your email private - Be careful about who you give your email to, and consider setting up a separate email address for online ordering. If a website requires that you enter your email address, be sure to read their privacy policy to make sure they won’t share your email address.
• Be careful when downloading free games, music or other programs - If a program is free, make sure there are no hidden items for you to buy and be sure to read the policy and terms carefully. Educate children who are using the computer about the dangers of viruses and how to use caution with free offers and spam emails.
• Run Windows updates -  Always try to run Windows updates when prompted, or visit the Windows update site monthly to make sure your operating system is up-to-date with all patches and fixes.

If you have further tips or comments on how you keep your computer clean, please leave a comment below.