5 ways to make your computer faster

At London Data we often have clients asking for advice on how to improve the speed and performance of their computer. In most cases, a few simple measures can make a noticeable difference, and the five ways described here are part of best practice daily management of any workstation.

1. Save your files onto the server instead of on your desktop or in My Documents, making sure they are on the correct drives and in the proper folders, so you can easily find them again. This saves disk space and ensures that the files are part of the company data backup.
2. A clear folder structure will make it easier to find files, and will reduce the risk of duplicating or losing documents.
3. Some programmes are set up to start when the computer is turned on meaning that they will slow down the whole start up process. Turn off automatic start-up of programmes such as Skype, Messenger etc. and schedule your daily virus scan for the lunch break instead.
4. Have regular tidy-ups of files and folders making sure you archive or delete items you no longer need. Also remember to empty the recycling bin as well as the deleted items folder in Outlook. In addition, every time you open a document online, a copy is stored in your Downloads folder on your local drive, go through it regularly and delete what you no longer need.
5. Uninstall any excess programmes you have no longer have a need for e.g. expired trial versions of programmes. Make sure the system does not need the programme. Open your control panel, go to programmes, then right click and click uninstall.

These steps will clear disc space, and reduce the risk of the computer clogging up trying to do too much at the same time.

Full Support Client Restructured Their Business and Doubled in Size

A Full Support client in EC2 London conducted a complete restructuring of their business setup, creating a 2 company structure working closely together, doubling the headcount at their offices. They took the opportunity to boost their IT infrastructure, and asked London Data to identify the key areas where their investment would benefit the most and carry out the required work.

Internet, Servers and Backup System Upgrade

Firstly, a leased line internet connection was installed, providing our client with a dedicated ad stable internet connection, something that is hard to come by in Central London.

Next, a state-of-the-art backup solution was implemented using Microsoft DPM, removing the need for backup tapes and giving full accessibility to files up to 10 versions back and capture and keep emails for a set number of days. This incorporates a failsafe Disaster Recovery solution protecting both companies’ data at all times.

Furthermore, new servers were installed with Windows Server 2008 Standard R2 providing the stability and manageability necessary when a company is reliant on IT. We set up servers for the new company and upgraded the existing company’s servers to ensure the clear division between the companies but at the same time maintaining the interoperability and benefits that come from two companies sharing office space. The setup of the servers included installing and configuring Microsoft Dynamics CRM, SQL Server 2008 Standard and Microsoft Exchange 2010, along with 2 brand new high-speed switches to accommodate the extra network access required.

Lastly, new workstations were set up with Windows 7, Office 2010 and the latest version of Sage Accounts, ensuring optimum compatibility with the servers.

Stability, Manageability and Performance

This all-round upgrade took couple of months to complete, ensuring a smooth transition and least possible disruption to the employees. The new hardware has a life expectancy of 3-5 years meaning that our client should have minimal hardware expenditures for the foreseeable future. Our client now has a more manageable and secure IT infrastructure that offers 


Terry May, Support Manager