There are a lot of programs that load automatically when you boot up your PC—which can really hamper performance. To manage these programs like a pro, learn how to get a comprehensive view of what’s running:

A clean machine is a fast machine. That means your best option is to uninstall all the programs you don’t use. Delete things like trial software, limited-edition versions, and anything else you’re never going to use. Antivirus software? Just testing. You always want your security program, but make sure you’re only running a single, up-to-date program. To uninstall software:

If your PC bogs down while you’re working, check to see how many programs you have running. All programs take up system memory, which can have a huge impact on performance. In some cases, having multiple instances of a program (such as several open email messages) or multiple versions of a program type (more than one antivirus program) can use up memory. Respond to and close your messages right away and keep open only the programs that are necessary for the work you’re currently doing—and you’ll see a boost in speed.

It’s all very well to advise you to close programs you’re not using—but just because you’re not using it now doesn’t mean you won’t be using it in 10 minutes. The answer is ReadyBoost, a helpful feature that can use the extra space on a flash card or USB storage device to speed up your PC. Plug in a compatible storage device and click Speed up my system when you see the AutoPlay dialog box.

If your PC was whizzing along merrily and then suddenly started lagging, run a virus scan. Clean bill of health? Try a troubleshooter:

The more you use your PC, the more programs you use and the more services you’re running. Closing a program doesn’t always close the service. That’s why restarting fixes so many problems; it clears out the memory.

You should also make a habit of cleaning your hard disk to remove temporary files, emptying the Recycle Bin, and getting rid of system files you don’t need any more:

Is your PC still slow? Take a look at the Windows Experience Index, a method of rating your PC on five key components. Depending on your particular hardware, you might need a new PC or some hardware upgrades. To see your Windows Experience Index:

One of the best things you can do to protect your PC is also one of the easiest: Make sure you are set up to get automatic updates from Microsoft. If you use Windows and other Microsoft software, such as Microsoft Office or Windows Live Essentials, then you should use the Microsoft Update service. You’ll also get notices about new Microsoft software that you can download for free.

So how do you turn on automatic updates? Simple: Go to the Microsoft Update website. If you don’t have automatic updates turned on, we’ll help you through the process.

“Pretty is as pretty does,” my grandmother used to say. Maybe she wasn’t referring to computers, but the principle still applies. Windows includes some stunning effects, but if you need more speed you can customize the settings you want to use for the appearance of Windows on your computer.