New
#1
need help with basic maintenance steps & utilities
I've gotten help from here awhile back to do a clean install of Windows 7 and recently, I’ve been able to install the GWX console to deal with the “get Windows 10” problems & finally able to install all security updates up to July; lagged in August thru November but got hold of some help from @Woody website to navigate the complicated new way to keep Win7 updated. I’ve now gotten the necessary security-only updates for Oct and Nov – am waiting for ‘green lights’ on December ones.
I’ve used Macrium to image backups (OS and data) before and after installing these major WUs. But it has been a long while since I’ve check system health etc. and have recently gotten a couple of BSOD while unplugging external USB hard drives.
So I would appreciate much needed help on the basics for maintenance using utilities already available in Windows 7 and freeware first before having to buy programs. I’ve made a list of things I’ve read about in the Performance & Maintenance and would appreciate help with advice on where to start and the effective sequence (available links to tutorials or step-by-step instructions are greatly appreciated). Please do suggest others that I haven’t read enough to include. Please also note whenever System Restore Points or backup imaging will be needed before certain procedures are to be done. Please also advise on how to maintain the backup images – when would the older ones be considered ‘obsolete’?
Macrium backup of OS and of data partitions
Check disk health (see attached image; this seemed odd when I went to “create a restore point”)
SFC /scannow (should I allow automatic repair or just verify only?)
disk cleanup
system health report (how to generate one & understanding results to proceed with resolutions)
CCleaner
How to occasionally check / maintain only necessary processes and services as new programs are installed
Weekly data backup and maintaining backup schedule