Just bought my 1st real PC, WEBTV up to now. BB tells me I should have it "optimized" @ the store. Is it necessary & can it be done @ home? They SAID it clears up factory "clutter" and improves speed? Welcome to the forum...

DEPENDING on what brand you purchased, most PCs like HP, Dell, Gateway, etc., etc., will come with software installed you probably will never use.

If you're a first-time PC owner...it would probably be a good idea to have the PC "optimized", but I wouldn't pay for it...since you can do this yourself...or have someone a little more familiar with the process do it for you.

The process is relatively simple...just go through Add/Remove programs to remove those programs you wouldn't be using, clean up any leftover unnecessary files, and then run the defrag software.

However, I highly recommend you let someone with a little more experience do it for you...and try not to tackle it yourself...or you'll be kicking yourself in the head.

There's another way to look at it, too. The store may just want you to spend that little extra money...just so it makes the salesperson look good to the manager. The most likely reason why they are recommending the optimization.

A few things you'll want to know about PCs:

• Maintain your operating system by making sure it's updated with the latest patches.
• Make sure you have an antivirus program, spyware program and firewall program installed. Keep them updated. Run regular scans on your computer.
• Perform weekly maintenance, removing any unwanted software, clearing internet cache/cookies/history...and performing a defrag.