Establish a regular maintenance schedule. Just like brushing your teeth regularly to avoid cavities, you can minimize computer problems by keeping your PC on a regular preventive maintenance program.

Run the ScanDisk program once a month to check for/repair any problems with your hard disk. ScanDisk is a utility that can be found on Windows operating systems. For example, ScanDisk in Windows 95/98 checks your files and folders for data errors and can also check the physical surface of the disk. To run ScanDisk, click on "Start." Highlight "Programs," "Accessories," then "System Tools." Click on "ScanDisk." The program will begin, warn you of anything found and clean up your files. If you don't have Windows, you can purchase a program similar to ScanDisk for $29-$89 at your local software retailer.

Run a disk defragmenting program once a month to keep your computer reading and writing to your disk at top speeds. Once again, most computers have a defragmenting program preinstalled. For example, if you have Windows 95/98, you can access the defragmenting program by clicking on "Start." Highlight "Programs," "Accessories," then "System Tools." Click on "Disk Defragmenter," and the program will take care of the rest. If you don't have a defragmenting program, you can purchase one for $29-$89 at most software retailers.

Delete old, unnecessary items. Old e-mail files and folders can clutter your computer, eating valuable disk space. Deleting those files that you don't need will free up more space for important items that you access regularly. You may want to pay particular attention to the items in your temporary file (the Windows file that temporarily saves Web site downloads and other data). You may not realize it, but they can fill up your hard drive fairly quickly - especially if you're a frequent Web surfer. To check your temporary file, open the "Windows" folder, then double-click on "Temp." Your temporary files will be listed. From there you can determine which files you can delete or keep.

Don't forget to empty your recycle bin as well. When you delete a file, it just moves to the recycle bin. You must empty the bin in order to permanently delete the file and free space. To find out what's in the bin, open it up by double-clicking on its icon usually located on the desktop. Highlight the files that you wish to delete, pull down the "File" menu and select "Delete." The computer will ask you to confirm that these files should be permanently deleted. Click "Yes" to continue, or click "No" to cancel. If you find a file in the recycle bin that you want to save, highlight the file then click and drag it to the desktop or appropriate folder.

Take precautions during storms. Power surges frequently occur during electrical storms, but they can also happen spontaneously. Unplugging your computer during a thunder storm is the safest way to protect your PC. If you're not at home when a storm rolls in, investing in a surge protector can save some headaches and money in the long run. Probably the easiest way to purchase a power surge protector is to buy an electrical outlet power strip that has the surge protector included. It costs about $12 and can be found at computer retailers, hardware stores or discount stores.

The Inside - Make sure your computer is virus free. Run a viral detection/cleaning program every week. A virus protection program can be purchased for $50 and up and can be found at most local software stores.

CD-ROMs and Diskettes - Dust is one of your computer's worst enemies. Dust build-up on CDs and diskettes can cause file reading errors, skipping or data saving errors. To avoid this, keep your CDs and diskettes in their protective storage cases when they're not in use. This will reduce the dust infiltration as well as prevent accidental scratches/breaks. If you find dust has found its way to these items, take a soft, clean cloth (to prevent scratches) and gently wipe to remove.

The Outside - Once again, dust is your computer's arch enemy. Sticky keys can result when dust builds up underneath the keyboard keys causing them to stickkkkkk. When you're not using the computer, put a cover over it to keep it clean. You can purchase special covers from $8 to $25. If you want something a little cheaper, a folded up sheet from the linen closet will work just as well.

If your computer gets dusty and dirty, clean the unit, monitor and mouse with a soft, clean cloth. For tough dirt, dampen the cloth with a mild detergent to clean the outside of the unit or mouse track ball.

When a computer problem does occur, it's essential that you've backed up your files. If you don't, you could lose vital information that could cost you time and money - especially if you bring work home. When you first get your computer, follow the directions to back up the original files right away. Then make a note to back up your personal data files (i.e., the financial records you added, important homework assignments, etc.) regularly - every week or so. After you back up your initial and personal data files, take the disk(s) out of the computer and store in a safe, dry location for future reference. Do not leave back-up disks, or any other disks for that matter, in the disk drive when the PC is not in use.

You hear these computer terms all the time, but what do they really mean? Here's a breakdown of some of the most common words you may come across:

Floating Files - If your files are jumping from menu to menu or they're just difficult to open, there may be a problem with the hard disk. Run the ScanDisk program to check and correct any errors with your files, folders and hard disk. If that doesn't work, your computer may have a virus. Running a viral detection/cleaning program should do the trick.

Molasses Mouse - If your mouse is slower than you-know-what, there are several things that you can check. First, make sure the mouse is securely connected to the computer. If it's not connected properly, the computer's not getting the right communication signals. If everything's plugged in correctly, your mouse may just need a thorough cleaning. Open the back of the mouse, remove the trackball and clean the ball and rollers inside the mouse with a soft, clean, lint-free cloth.

Change Not Accepted - Have you changed any of your preferences in the settings menu, and they haven't registered yet? If you just made the switch, it won't take effect until you restart the computer. To restart: Select the "Start" button, then "Shut Down." Choose "Restart the Computer" from the list of options and click on "Yes."

Slow Surfing - Is it taking a long time to download Web sites from the Internet? Double-check your modem speed settings. You may have a slower speed selected for your preferences. To find out, select the "Start" button and highlight "Settings" then "Control Panel." Choose "Modems" from the menu. Follow the help wizard on the screen to find out the current modem settings. If they aren't right, choose the correct settings from the displayed list.