Windows XP might have been superseded by Vista, but XP is not dead yet. There are lot of people still using XP and they still look out for solutions to their problems. So here is the list which can be helpful to you if you are an XP user.

1: Turning off Unwanted Services:

Many of the unwanted services were turned on by default which in turn uses our resources; Jasonn’s article guides in tuning off unnecessary Windows XP services. For boosting up low end systems, themes services can be turned off thus using the classic version of Windows XP.

2: Cleaning Temporary files:

Although you organize folders and files in a great way, it is recommended to clean areas like Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet Files, Old System restore data, Prefetch data etc. Since its hard to check out each folder I recommend CCleaner, a powerful utility to remove unwanted files and junks from your computer.

3: Remove Unwanted Programs:

Managing installed programs is very much important as users do not concentrate on it. Remove unused programs from Control panel regularly, including unused windows components like IIS, Fax, Phone dialer etc. Using software like File Shredder can help in deleting non removable programs.

4: Security

Compromising performance for security is like killing yourself for your safety. So try to use a light Anti-virus program which would not degrade the performance of the computer. Some of the good examples are AVAST, AVG and Kaspersky. Regular backups are advisory.

5: Tweaks and Hacks

Whether its registry hack or a tweak, TWEAKXP has some good lists of Performance tweaks which will boost up and optimize your system.

6: Updating Programs and Drivers

Updating your Anti-virus with latest definitions including updated drivers and patches for windows will prevent security risks and key holes thus keeping you on the safer side.

7: Use NTFS file system

It is advisory to use NTFS file system which has various advantages compared to old FAT or FAT 32. NTFS provides increased security, compression including encryption. But if you are using multi-operating systems do not use this file system.

8: Disabling Error reporting

One of the annoying features in Windows XP is whenever an error is logged, it will ask you to send to Microsoft. You can turn of this feature by right clicking MY COMPUTER selecting Properties > Advanced Tab and click Error Reporting. Now Disable Error reporting unchecking it.

9: Managing Startups

Some softwares install themselves in the startups without user knowledge, opening every time the system is started. These startup programs are the major cause of degrading your performance. To manage system startup programs go to start > Run and type MSCONFIG. Under the Startup tab, uncheck the unwanted programs and reboot. Programs like Real Player, Yahoo! Messenger, Google Talk, Winamp etc can be removed unless you don’t need it there.

10: Defragmentation of Drives:

Defragmentation helps in physical re-organization of files in drives. Defragmentation not only helps to Run Windows faster but it also helps the lifespan of your hard drive. Hope you like these tips; do encourage me to write more by telling your suggestions or leaving a comment.

This post was contributed by Shankar who writes on Web 2.0 Technology . Feel free to ask him any questions and Do visit his site for more. Thanks to Thilak who helped me for this guest post too.