Clean Machine

When we say "clean machine" we are not talking about the outside of your computer. We are talking about all of the files on your computer's hard drive(s).

When you buy a new computer, it usually comes loaded with an operating system such as Microsoft Windows. It may come loaded with application programs, utilities, games and even data.

The operating system and all programs and data on your computer form a collection of files that are contained on the computer's hard drive.

As you add programs, remove programs, change configurations, create documents, send and receive email, view Web pages and create favorites, etc., the collection of files is being changed.

Problems occur when something is wrong with the collection of files. It could be missing files, incorrect versions, corruption of file contents, etc.

The general idea of a "clean machine" is one that is not loaded with things you don't need to get your work done.

As you can tell, just using your computer changes what is on it. Often when a person has problems with their computer they go on a "digging and clicking" mission, changing things that they do not know about.

Other times people will install new versions of software hoping that it will solve the problem. Often times the result is a big mess that is similar to a ball of tangled fishing line.

Sometimes its better to just wipe out the whole contents of the hard drive after backing up all data, rather than trying to untangle the mess that has been made. Next would be a reinstallation of the operating system, applications and data. This would be the "start clean" part. Starting clean can be a lot of work if you already have a mess but it is often necessary rather than spending days or weeks trying to make everything work without successful results.

Not adding stuff or changing things unnecessarily would be the "stay clean" part. Resist the temptation to add things you don't need to the computer you depend on. Use an old computer or one you do not depend on to do your experimenting.

Following this advice will improve reliability and security and save you lots of headaches and downtime.