2005 Running a Lag Free HL2 Server. All rights reserved.
Programs and other tips-
 
A) Always update Windows. You can update Windows by visiting the following website:
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/
Running a Lag Free Half Life 2 Server:


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B) Spyware and Viruses WILL slow down your server. I prefer using Norton Anti-Virus to Remove Viruses, and Microsoft's Spyware Application to remove Spyware.
AntiVir Virus Scanner (freeware virus scanner): Click here to download
Spybot- Search & Destroy: http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html
Make sure you update all programs so you can ensure you are getting the latest files to scan your computer. Always scan your computer for Viruses and Spyware weekly. I also like to clean the registry of entries that are not in use, for that, I use Powerhouse RegSupreme.

C) Make sure your drivers are up to date. Please visit your computer's manufacturer website for more information on obtaining new updated drivers.
 
www.compaq.com
www.hp.com
www.gateway.com
www.dell.com
www.ibm.com
 
You also want to update your computer's chipset drivers also. I'm not going to go over this because it is different for every computer. If you wish to find out more about updating your computer's chipset drivers, visit your computer's manufacture website.

D) Always minimize the server screen because it uses less RAM when minimized.

E) Running Clean Disk gets rid of files such as temporary Internet files that can slow down the computer.
1) Go to "Start", "Program Files", and then "Accessories"
2) Select "System Tools", then Select "Disk Cleanup"
3) Click "OK"

Cooling- I also clean my server about once every 3 months. Dust can slow down fans, which will make your computer warmer, leading to be more sluggish. I usually get a can of air which you can find at Office Depot for $4.99. I just use it all around the computer, getting dust out of it. Make sure you have enough fans in the computer also. Don't go overboard though, just because you have 10 fans doesn't mean its going to stay cool. You need to have the fans placed correctly so that air is coming in from the front, and going out the back. Pay attention to which part of the fan blows and sucks. You want the front sucking in air, and the back blowing out air. Do NOT create a vacuum where you have the fans in the front and back sucking in.