Advanced Tools for the Average User
Published by Gregg Housh on 2009-11-04 21:44:11
With the release of Microsoft's Windows seven operating system, a lot of the performance issues present in past installments of this computer mainstay have been addressed, showing a measurable improvement in areas that were once headaches for even the most capable machines. Still, regardless of what would seem to be Microsoft's welcome response to the chorus of complaints about XP and Vista, the onset of problems is expected for even the most recent release. No operating system is immune from the sort of error that results from any number of issues: viruses, adware, negligence, and so on.
Despite how it's presently running, tomorrow could usher in a group of surprising problems, which is expected with even new machines. Windows 7 ( Vista, too ) has a strong set of tools - all included inside one easily accessible menu - that the annoyed user can utilize when attempting to diagnose the source of an issue.
Accessing these tools is as simple as entering a command in the search box that's found in the Start menu. Once you've entered "performance info" you'll be greeted by a window from where you can select "Advanced tools."
After those tools are available, it becomes apparent that you have at your disposal an impressive assortment of diagnostic options that may - at the very least - aid you towards determining what lies at the source of your ailing system :
* Clear all Windows Experience Index scores and re-rate system
* View performance details in Event log
* Open Performance Monitor
* Open Resource Monitor
* Open Task Manager
* View Advanced system details in System Information
* Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows
* Open Disk Defragmenter
* Generate a system health report
One of the most educational tools you can use is Open Resource Monitor. Like Task Manager, Resource Monitor provides an overview of your system's resources, permitting you to manage the available resources ( RAM, storage, bandwidth ) your system has to work with. Unlike Task Manager, which is kind of vague in its detail, Resource Monitor works at the micro level - meaning, you're given a degree of specificity that illuminates how an individual process or application figures into the general allocation of resources.
Another beneficial aid is the "Generate a system health report" option. Similar to having a physical at the physician's office, this will evaluate your system's health, generating an analysis which will enlighten you on what areas you should address when experiencing issues with your computer's performance. Taking just a few moments, the system analysis will return a report that details each vital facet of your system. Using this diagnostic analysis, you'll be left with a clearer picture of how your computer is faring. For example, if there is a driver that's hindering your capability to hear sound, this report will highlight that conflict.
These are just the tools that are reasonably self-explanatory in their use and interpretation. The more sophisticated tools - like View performance details in Event log - are just as advantageous, but they require a level of expertise that your average user might be without.
For even the most accomplished technician, the poor performance of a system will remain a problem that never permanently subsides. If you have questions on the utilization of these tools, or want to know how to clear up any problems they unearth, Geek Choice is always available to offer you that assistance. If you've got a slow computer Geek Choice, a nationwide computer repair service, can help you properly configure it for the best possible performance. You can pick up the phone at any time and call us at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435).
