Talk about how to make Windows smarter!

After two days of Windows-related content, did you miss out on the fascinating world of registry enthusiasts? Food may rely on prime ingredients, but mastering computer knowledge requires gradual learning and progressively increasing challenges. Today, I’ll take things up a notch and discuss what to do after installing Windows.

To ensure your system remains stable and efficient over time, regular optimization, updates, and maintenance—especially cleaning—are essential. If you're not afraid of third-party tools, you could use something like the "Home Barrel" or similar utilities for comprehensive maintenance. However, be cautious, as some tools might inadvertently slow down your system or even cause crashes and blue screens.

First, let’s talk about initial Windows optimization. Beyond installing the right drivers, removing unnecessary startup programs and disabling unused services is crucial. To disable unnecessary startup items, press Ctrl + Alt + Del, then select Task Manager. Under the Startup tab, review and disable any items you don’t need. Be careful though, especially on branded laptops or computers, where essential components like power management, touchpads, and audio devices shouldn't be disabled.

I’ve mentioned before that Windows 10 has a few services that occasionally cause issues, such as frozen applications and high disk usage. Right-click on "This PC," select "Manage," and navigate to "Services." Look for "Superfetch," "HomeGroup Listener," and "HomeGroup Provider"—disabling these can resolve many problems.

Windows Update is enabled by default, and while I recommend leaving it on, you can delay updates if you’re concerned about potential issues. In Settings > Updates and Security > Windows Update > Advanced Options, you can defer updates by up to 30 days (or up to 120 days for feature updates). Even if there are problems with new patches, solutions are usually available.

Now, let's talk about daily garbage cleaning. While Windows generates temporary files regularly, it's best not to clean them too often. Use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool for general maintenance. For more advanced tasks like registry cleaning, tools like CCleaner are ideal.

Right-click on your disk partition, select "Properties," and click on "Disk Cleanup." This tool allows you to clean up system files without permission issues. Additionally, enable "Storage Awareness" in Settings > System > Storage to automatically delete unnecessary files from the Recycle Bin and UWP apps to save disk space.

Remember, cleaning too aggressively can destabilize Windows, especially the registry. Always proceed with caution.

Thirdly, setting up automated tasks is incredibly useful. Many online guides dismiss task scheduling as unimportant, but it's actually one of the most practical features in Windows. With automated tasks, you can schedule routine maintenance, garbage collection, and even automatic shutdowns after downloads.

For instance, you can set up a task to clean a specific folder every week, run virus scans, or defragment your hard drive at night. To create a task, go to "Task Scheduler" (accessible via "This PC" > Management). Choose "Create Basic Task" or "Create Task" for more advanced options. Name your task, specify when it should run, and define what action to take.

Next, select the trigger—when the task should start—and choose the appropriate action. You can run scripts, programs, or commands based on your needs. Advanced settings allow you to run tasks with elevated privileges, specify triggers, and add conditions like network availability or idle time.

With a little creativity, task scheduling can automate countless tasks, making your computer smarter and more efficient. Let your imagination run wild!