PC Maintenance Guide

PC Maintenance Guide

Designed for customers of Pink Parsnip Computers, but useful for anyone running a Windows 11 gaming PC or desktop.

Every Pink Parsnip PC is supplied with:
Windows 11 installed & activated, latest updates applied, correct GPU drivers installed, relevant peripheral & RGB software configured, and BIOS settings (XMP, Secure Boot, TPM) correctly set.

You should never need to enter the BIOS during normal use. Contact us before upgrades.

Part 1 – Software Maintenance

Keep Windows, drivers and performance running smoothly.

Windows

Windows Updates

  • Check every 1–2 weeks
  • Install security & quality updates
  • Restart when prompted
Drivers

Graphics Drivers

  • Update monthly or for new games
  • Use official tools only
  • Avoid third-party driver sites
Startup

Startup Apps

  • Task Manager → Startup
  • Disable unnecessary items
Storage

Free Space

  • Keep 15–20% free on Windows drive
  • Remove unused games
Tools

The Parsnip Vault

Trusted, vetted utilities and links.

Open The Parsnip Vault

Security & Malware Protection

Security

Windows Defender

  • Leave enabled
  • Avoid multiple antivirus tools
  • Ignore “PC optimiser” software
Malware

Malwarebytes (Recommended)

  • Works alongside Defender
  • Detects malware & unwanted programs
  • Free version available

We can pre-install this on request.

Gaming Software & Performance

Launchers

Official Game Launchers

  • Steam, Epic, Xbox, Battle.net
  • Verified files & updates
  • Use “Verify game files” if needed
Mods

Mods & Third-Party Add-ons

  • Not officially supported
  • Can reduce FPS or stability
  • Higher malware risk

Installed at your own risk.

FiveM

FiveM Performance Expectations

  • FPS depends heavily on the server
  • Performance varies massively
  • Not considered a PC fault

We can advise on hardware but cannot guarantee FPS.

Storage, Drives & Encryption

Expansion

Adding a Secondary Drive

  • SATA SSD or NVMe supported
  • Spare PSU power connectors included
  • Initialise via Disk Management
Encryption

BitLocker, TPM & Secure Boot

  • Primary Windows drive may be encrypted
  • Secondary drives unaffected
  • Adding storage won’t wipe Windows

Your Windows key is stored in the Pink Parsnip folder on your desktop.

Overclocking

Recommendation

Our Position on Overclocking

  • Not recommended for CPU or GPU
  • Increases heat & power usage
  • Can shorten component lifespan
  • May cause instability or damage

Overclocking is done at your own risk and is not covered under our standard warranty.

Part 2 – Physical Cleaning & Hardware Care

Safety

Powering Down

  • Shut down fully
  • Switch PSU off and unplug
  • Press power button once
Static

Static Precautions

  • Touch metal case before working
  • Avoid carpeted areas
Tools

What to Use

  • Compressed air
  • Microfibre cloth
  • Isopropyl alcohol (sparingly)
Avoid

What Not to Use

  • Vacuum cleaners
  • Household sprays
  • Excess moisture
Dust

Fans & Filters

  • Hold fans still when cleaning
  • Clean filters regularly
  • Ensure filters are fully dry
Schedule

Cleaning Frequency

  • Every 3–6 months
  • More often with pets or smoke
Final

After Cleaning

  • Reattach panels
  • Confirm all fans spin
  • Listen for unusual noise

If unsure, stop and contact us.