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Windows 8’s File Copy tool is a big improvement on earlier versions of Windows, but for faster and more versatile file copying, install Ultracopier (ultracopier.first-world.info). Features include queuing up file transfers and better error handling.

Updating certain drivers (graphics and chipset drivers can boost performance squash bugs and introduce new features. If you can’t find the latest drivers for your PC, install Snappy Driver Installer 

(snappydriver-installer.sourceforge.net).

AutoCorrect and AutoText help speed up typing in Microsoft Word, but imagine what you could do if you could extend them to any application on your PC? WordExpander on the cover disc lets you do just that.

Every font loaded into memory consumes system resources. If you’re a font junkie then use AMP Font Viewer to manage them it allows you to remove unused fonts, and load fonts for one-time use, giving you the best of all worlds.

Create custom toolbars by rightclicking the Taskbar and choosing ‘Toolbars’ select Address Bar to gain access to sites or apps from the Taskbar, or choose ‘New toolbar’ to pick a folder or drive, and get access to contents.

Keyboard shortcuts are the quickest way to open programs – the first ten shortcuts on the Taskbar can be opened by pressing [Win]+[1] to [Win]+[0]. Or, create your own by right-clicking the shortcut and choosing ‘Properties’.

Click Start, right-click ‘My Computer’ and select ‘Properties’. Click ‘Advanced System Settings’ (or in the Advanced tab click ‘Settings’ under ‘Performance’). On the Visual Effects tab select ‘Adjust for best performance’ to disable everything.

If your PC or laptop is permanently connected to the mains, and you’re happy to ditch energy-saving measures, open the ‘Power Options’ control panel from the Start menu and choose the ‘High Performance’ setting.

Windows 7 and 8 users should right-click a program’s Taskbar icon to access recently opened files. Or install Jumplist-Launcher, which allows you to create custom Jump Lists containing chosen apps, files and folder shortcuts.