Performing System Maintenance

DISABLE STARTUP PROGRAMS

Press Windows Key + R on the kayboard.
The "Run" window will appear. Type "msconfig" and press Enter.

The System Configuration window will appear.
Go to the Startup tab and Uncheck applications such as: Adobe, Quicktime, etc.

Don't uncheck your antivirus or Wifi.
If you install any new programs below, do this again.

CCleaner

Download and install, it's free.

Run the Cleaner and the Registry Fixer (optional).

If it asks to backup the Registry, save to a usb drive or location of your choice. You don't have to, it is for if you ever need to revert back to an older version.

Defraggler

Defrag your Hard Drive once every two months. Windows comes with it's own defragger, but you can install and use Defraggler instead. It has a cooler logo and better visuals.

Don't defrag an SSD (Solid State Drive).

Speccy

If you want to be swaggest hipster on the block, download Speccy.

Look at those temps. Too high? Buy some canned air. Open up the side panel of your pc and blow that sucker out. Watch those temps drop. You are now benchmarking like a pro.

HD Tune

You can analyze your Hard Drive's health using this free software.

Benchmark your drive for speed results.

Check Health and do an Error Scan.

If you get red blocks, backup all your data. Your hard drive may be on it's way to failure.

Malwarebytes

Download and Install.

Perform a Scan. Do once a month or as often as you like. Disable Malwarebytes after the scan, as it could slow down your system if left on.

Antivirus

If you don't have an Antivirus or don't want to buy one, Microsoft offers Security Essentials for free.

Other notable Antivirus software:

Avast (free)

Kaspersky

TDSSKiller (Antirootkit)

Eset Nod32

Remove Software

Go to Control Panel, click uninstall programs. Remove any suspicious looking software.

If you don't recognize or remember installing something on the list, do a web search on the program's name to find out what it is.

(Optional) Download IObit Uninstaller to remove more thoroughly.

Router Security

Broadcasting Wifi? Is it WPA2 secured? If not, look on the back of your router for the URL or IP address to the Router Configuration page. (WEP is not secure enough. Use WPA2.)

Or press Windows Key + R on the keyboard. Run window will appear, type cmd, press Enter. In the Terminal type ipconfig /all, press Enter.

Type the Default Gateway address into your  browser's URL bar to access Router config. Set a WPA2 Password to secure your signal.