=  Run Windows Updates often.  The Windows Update site is your link to bug fixes, security fixes, updates, and other patches to Windows.  Frequent visits to the site will ensure that your copy of Windows is always up to date.  You can also (with most new computers) set up the computer’s configuration to automatically run Windows Update on a periodic basis and download the updates without your having to initiate the program.  Whichever way you choose, it’s a very good idea to always make sure you have the latest updates.

=  Get a long-term virus solution.  Many new computers will come with a 90-day (or some other short time period) trial subscription to anti-virus software.  If you are reasonably certain that the software provided is what you want to use even after the trial has ended, go ahead and leave it on.  But if you’re not sure, you’re better off uninstalling it right away and finding a solution that will meet your needs both now and in the future.  Most anti-virus programs have Web sites with more information about their products, or you can visit our downloads page to get more information about the anti-virus utilities we provide free of charge to our customers.  Note:  many virus programs will come bundled with extra applications that you may not need or want.  It’s a good idea to study the packages and find one with only what you need as your anti-virus solution.  But in all cases, do make sure that you get some kind of virus protection that will work for you both now and in the future.

=  “Free trial” software may be just that—a trial.  If your computer comes with several programs on a trial basis, and you’re not going to use them, they may just be taking up space on your desktop and in your system . . . and could be easily uninstalled by using the Add/Remove Programs feature in the Control Panel.  Otherwise, you may be looking at a lot of extra icons on your desktop and a notice at the end of the trial period asking you to pay extra to keep the software on your computer.  Obviously if you plan on using these programs, it wouldn’t be a problem to leave them.  But if they’re not in your future plans, uninstalling could save you fuss later on.

=  Set your home page to HunTel.net.  New computers will usually come with some variance of the manufacturer’s Web site set up as your Internet browser’s home page (or perhaps some search engine if the manufacturer has a contract with a search engine company).  In a lot of cases, our home page contains useful information to help keep your computer running and enhance your service experience . . . and in the case of temporary planned service outages or reduced technical support hours, we use our page to alert customers and keep you informed about what we’re doing.  So it’s always a good idea for customers to make HunTel.net their home page and check it periodically for information.  If you need any help doing that, just give us a call.

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