I have an old Compaq Presario that is about 5 years old will be a perfect computer for my mom. See Lifehacker: How to fix your relative's terrible computer.Ĭharles E: I have a small question on bringing life to my old laptop. Protect! Set up backup ( Mozy, Carbonite, Crashplan)īlow it out: Clean out the computer's vents - bring compressed air with you. Seth: Try CrossLoop for simple attended remote sharing Rafe's meta advice: Install LogMeIn (for unattended remote access). Best free, lightweight tools: AVG, Avast, Panda, Microsoft.

Useful: Ninite, for getting a bunch of stuff at once.Īntivirus: First make sure relative isn't running multiple. Seth: Smart Defrag (XP only, W7 doesn't require defragging) replacement PDF reader ( Nitro or FoxIt) WinDirStat (or Disk Inventory X for OS X) The USB key of the the geeks: What should be on it? 3) Run CCleaner, clear out Reg 4) reboot 5) install new apps 6) take prescription from Dr. Seth's personal tech support pattern: 1) install manageable AV, set to silent/gaming mode.

How to talk to your less-techie relatives. Your browser does not support the audio element.Įpisode 28: How to tweak your relatives' computersįirst, the approach.

Ninite revo