Download patches or service packs

Microsoft and Apple provide free security updates to their operating systems — download and install the latest versions and fixes.

I recommend: Go to Windows Update for Microsoft Windows operating systems. In Mac OSX, go to the Apple menu and select "Software Update" to check for updates, to download and to install.

Remove spyware, adware and viruses

If you've opened e-mail tainted with viruses, spyware or adware, or clicked on some nefarious online links, you need to run a program to clean spyware, adware or viruses from your system.

I recommend: Dozens of commercial programs catch more menaces than freebies, and thankfully most are priced less than $80. Check out all-in-one security suite reviews that scan for spyware, adware and viruses from PC World and PCMag.com to find the right version for your PC operating system at the right price.

Properly maintain your hard drive

Get rid of unnecessary and misplaced files, tidy up the location of data on your hard disks, and neutralize problems with your hard drive before you lose data.

I recommend: Microsoft's "Put Your PC Maintenance Routine on Autopilot" article walks you through these critical processes using Microsoft's free tools built into Microsoft operating systems. For Apple disk issues, including "permissions" corrections (which help your Mac locate resources) use Disk Utility and/or fsck.

Clean up the dirt

You can't get online help with dust and dirt, so roll up your sleeves or task an employee.

I recommend: Check out CNET.com's step-by-step Clean Up Your Grungy PC guide. Check out PCWorld.com's Tune-Up Utilities.

Hire someone else to do it

If you don't have the skill, time or patience to maintain your own PCs, you can train an employee or hire an IT consultant.

I recommend: Try online maintenance and support through GeeksOnTime, Geek Squad or ask dr. tech.