DIY Computer Maintenance and Why It’s Important

DIY Computer Maintenance

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!

Questions to Ask a Computer Repair Service

So you know that you want to hire a computer repair service company, but not sure how to pick one. Before you do make sure you know who you’re hiring. Here’s a list of important questions you should have answered before you hire a computer repair service.

computer-questions

Money:

How much do you charge per hour? Is there a minimum cost limit? Are there any other charges besides the hourly rate?  First and foremost, you’re probably concerned about the cost of your computer repair. Key things to clarify are the ways that you will be charged for the job. Most computer repair projects are charged by the hour. Sometimes there is a minimum cost limit if your issue is resolved under a certain amount of time. These are all pretty standard in the computer repair service industry. Another thing to ask about is “hidden” fees. Obviously if you need a new piece of hardware for the fix or a software update in order to resolve the problem you’ll be charged for the materials. Although additional fees aren’t common, it is important to ask and see a list before you leave your computer.

Time:

How many hours will it take to fix? When can I pick up my computer? Chances are, you aren’t the first person with this problem. Your computer technician should be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take to fix your computer. This will help you to approximate how much your final bill will be, and gives you an idea of a timeframe. Don’t expect it to be exactly accurate though. Some projects may take a little longer than expected or they could find additional problems with your device. It’s good to get a couple of quotes to make sure that you’re getting standard prices and amounts of time.

Quality:

What are your qualifications? What do you specialize in? How much experience do you have? No two computer repair services are the same in skills and experience. Some may specialize in commercial services while others handle personal computers on a daily basis. Some deal with PCs or Macs while some are knowledgable in both. Depending on what exactly is wrong with your device may determine the level of experience required to fix it. If at all possible at least look at reviews to see if previous customers have left happy with the work that was done.

Process & Data Protection:

Do you offer remote support? Will you save my files?Getting your computer fixed should be the number one priority, but a close second is how it is done. Some circumstances you can’t afford to be without your computer for a day. Most tech companies can diagnose and even fix a problem with your computer remotely. If this is something that you’re interested in, make sure you ask and find out if it is offered. Flex Tech offers support by simply connecting to your computer remotely and diagnosing the problem right away. Depending on the problem they can fix it right then and there. If you computer does need to be left with the technician, be sure to ask if they will back up your files in advance. With a lot of computer problems, files can be lost during the fix. Don’t risk losing your files and photos. Back up your computer’s hard drive yourself if you can or be sure to ask if your computer repair service company will take care of it for you.

Follow Up & Support:

Do you guarantee your work? What happens if there is a problem with my computer after you fix it? How long do you offer extended support? It is important to remember that the job isn’t necessarily done after it is done. Make sure to ask follow up questions. If anything were to go wrong after your computer is fixed you want to make sure you’re covered. Find out the details on what they guarantee and for how long.

 

Contact Flex Tech Group for your computer repair service needs.