14 ways to speed up XP/vista

Most(almost all) of these tweaks are applicable for Vista as well just with a little bit of change.
e.g vista uses "computer" instead of "my computer" in xp

1.) Defragment your HDD regurlarly. You can use windows in built defragging tool or use a dedicated software like diskeeper.

2.)You should upgrade your RAM.These days you can easily get a 1gb chip(DDR2) for 850 INR.

3.) Ensure that Windows XP is utilizing the NTFS file system.
If you are using FAT then convert it to NTFS .

• click Start,

• click Run,

• type CMD,

• click OK.

At the prompt, type CONVERT C: /FS:NTFS and press the Enter key. NTFS offers greater security, reliability, and efficiency with larger disk drives.

4.) Disable file indexing. Though this service speeds up searching it really is taxing on the system so outweighs its benefits. TO disable just follow these simple steps:

• First, double-click the My Computer icon.
  
• right-click on the C: Drive,
• then select Properties.
• Uncheck "Allow Indexing Service to index this disk for fast file searching."
  
• Next, apply changes to "C: subfolders and files," and click OK.
  
• If a warning or error message appears (such as "Access is denied"), click the Ignore All button.
• Now wait for some time this takes time to complete.
  

5.) Use tune-up.

6.) To speed up boot read this article.

7.) Run a disk cleanup frequently(wont be necessary if you use tune up).

• Double-click the My Computer icon.
  
• right-click on the C: drive and select Properties.
• Click the Disk Cleanup button
  
• delete all temporary files.

8.) Use proper cabling nd upgrade your hardware drivers.You will find the options in device manager. Just enter "dvmgr.msc" at RUN and choose the hardware (like monitor) and double click on it to open properties box. Under drivers tab you will find an option to upgrade your drivers.

9.) Use a good antivirus program.I recommend "kaspersky" the ultimate security solution that blocks everything from pop-ups to viruses.

10.) Use "msconfig" to remove an program that are loading your system start-up and are good for nothing.
Just type "msconfig" at run and uncheck unwanted programs from "start-up" restart your system and you will see boot time reduced.

11.) If you are not a looks freak then just turn off all the not so cool animations and there by save your precious resources.

• right click on "my computer"
• select "properties"
• "advanced"
• "performance" click on settings
• In "visual effects" tab select adjust for best performance.You should keep " use drop shadows under desktop icons" and "show common tasks for folders" checked so that you wont feel too alien.
  

12.) Update windows regularly.

13.) Make habit of cleaning computer case and fans. If you are not sure about opening cabinet then you can take it to any computer shop.

14.)This is most important if you want your system to run smooth.Keep visiting this blog to get more tips and tweaks.