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12 steps to improving stability in Windows
Dear SearchWin2000.com members,
There are two things every administrator wants out of an operating system: security and stability. While security has received a lot of attention in the past year, we tend to leave the stability part completely to Microsoft.
After all, when have you ever seen a stability checklist? The plain truth is, many system instabilities are preventable. While operating system bugs do exist, there is a lot that administrators can do to improve the overall availability of their servers and workstations.
Go to SearchWin2000.com now for new site expert Bernie Klinder's path to Windows stability!
...or read more below!
1. Always use a clean install of Windows
Upgrading from a previous version of Windows is technically easier and faster, but sooner or later you'll pay for this shortcut in terms of unexplained system instabilities and a host of compatibility issues that begin to creep up over time. Just bite the bullet and do it right the first time. You'll save yourself many future headaches.
2. Don't skimp on the quality of your hardware
Your system is only as good as the components in it and attached to it. Spending a few extra dollars on name brand components can really make a difference in the overall stability of your system, Avoid generic memory chips, power supplies, hard drives, CD-ROM drives, video cards and network cards. The same rules apply to peripherals such as printers, scanners, mice, joysticks and other devices. Poorly written drivers and bundled software can wreak havoc on your system. For Windows NT-based
systems such as Windows 2000 and Windows XP, make sure your hardware is on Microsoft's Hardware Compatibility List.
3. Don't mix hardware drivers
It's tempting to want to keep old printers or scanners when you buy new systems. However, if the hardware manufacturer hasn't updated the driver for your current operating system, don't give in to the temptation of installing the previous driver to see if it will work. Do some research and find out if other users have discovered a stable workaround, or if a default Windows driver will work. It has been my experience that manufacturers will write updated drivers for medium- to high-end
products, but not low-end or entry-level products.
4. For access to 4-12, log on to SearchWIn2000.com!
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