Right click on your taskbar on an empty space.
Point to toolbars and select Desktop.
This option will enable you to access everything on your Desktop without minimizing or closing windows.
To remove, right click again, point to toolbars and select Desktop.

Open the control panel and click on internet options.
in the general tab type the home page you would like.
You can add more by typing each address on it's own line (IE7 and above), then click ok.

Check to see if you need to run defrag by clicking on analyze.
To access, click on start, point to programs, accessories, and system tools.

If you have problems with windows, (missing dll's and so on) try running system file checker.
To access, click on start, then run. Type "sfc /scannow" without the quotes.
This utility will replace any problem system files and may ask for your Windows XP CD.

Before installing new software make sure it's compatible with your OS.
Any time you install software you run the risk of upsetting your computer.
That is why you should only install software that you need and not take the risk by installing something like a screen saver or freeware.

When new software or upgrade becomes available, (not including patches) let a few month go by so they can work out the bugs and that way you won't have to be the one calling them for HELP!

Hold down with your left hand Ctrl and Alt keys and with your right, hit the delete key once ( in Vista and 7, select task manager) or right click on your taskbar on an empty space and click on task manager. Click the applications tab and highlight the program that's not responding and click end task it might take a few seconds or you'll get a second window telling you it's not responding, click end task again.