DIY Computer Maintenance
No matter what type of computer you have, they all need a little maintenance from time to time. Some things you need to get professional help with, but others can be done yourself fairly easily. It may surprise you that such little tasks can make a big difference in how your computer runs and operates. That being said, here are a few DIY computer maintenance tips that if done regularly will keep your computer running like new.
Antivirus Scans
Every computer should have a working antivirus software installed. Everyday there are new viruses being created increasing the risk to your computer. Simply having an antivirus isn’t enough. You need to make sure that your antivirus program is checking for updates on a regular basis, preferably daily. Once your antivirus is installed and up-to-date make sure that it is running scans on a regular basis as well. You should be able to program it to run virus scans at a certain time on a certain day. When you do this make sure that you computer is on during the scan, it won’t work if your computer is turned off. So if you turn your computer off every night, consider running the scan sometime during the day.
Software Updates
You know those annoying software update notifications that always seem to be popping up whenever you turn on your computer? Actually run them. Software companies don’t release these updates for nothing, usually these updates include bug fixes and offer better security against viruses. This includes updating your apps too. Consider deleting the apps that you don’t use anymore. Not only are they taking up valuable space in your hard drive, if they aren’t being updated they can pose a security threat leaving your computer vulnerable to viruses.
Regular Backups
This one should be fairly self-explanatory. Everyone has data on their computer that they don’t want to lose. To prevent this, if you have an external hard drive, use it. If you don’t have one, get one or take advantage of cloud software. You should be regularly backing up your important files and documents to be prepared for a possible computer crash.
Clear Temp & Unnecessary Files
You wouldn’t believe how many unnecessary files build up on your computer. A majority of these files come from the internet, each time you open a new page a copy of the webpage is stored. Also each time you download something, files are stored in your “downloads” folder. These kinds of files that you don’t even use can take up a lot of memory and really slow down your computer. Make a point to clear your temporary files, browser history, and cookies from your internet browsers. Here are some how-to guides for the popular browsers:
Cleaning
Last but not least, clean your computer regularly. Not only does it look better, dust and dirt from the air and your fingers can have an impact on how efficiently your computer runs. Components inside your computer heat up during use and excess dust can affect how they cool. If they aren’t cooling properly it can kill your computer. So while you can do exterior cleaning easily, if you aren’t familiar with the internal components of your computer it is best to leave that type of cleaning to the professionals.
Your computer, like many things in life, needs regular maintenance in order to keep it running efficiently. Extend the lifespan of your computer by using these easy tips. If you have any questions, contact Flex Technology Group today!