First up, it's getting rid of temporary files that may have built up over time, and for this, there's one simple, free application I recommend - CCleaner (Crap-Cleaner). It'll safely go through your computer and remove unwanted files, which include temporary internet files, temporary installs, temporary documents and more.

Here are the steps to install and run CCleaner:

1. Download CCleaner: http://www.ccleaner.com/download/downloading
2. Open the downloaded file to run the installer
3. Accept the defaults while installing the software, but when you reach the install options, be sure to untick the option to "Add CCleaner Yahoo! Toolbar" (more about this another week).
   
4. Once the install has finished, there are a couple of ways to run CCleaner, the easiest way is to Right-Click your "Recycle Bin" and Choose "Open CCleaner...", alternately you can run it from the Start menu.
5. Once CCleaner is loaded, don't get scared by all the options. All you need to do to run a default clean, is click the "Run Cleaner" option in the bottom left, then go and make a cup of tea.
6. Once the operation is complete CCleaner will report how much data it's cleansed from your PC. You can now safely close the application.

That's it - congratulations, your PC should be a little faster. I would recommend repeating this process every week or so, but running it more often will not do any damage.

For more information, or help, feel free to contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it