Top 10 ways to care for your computer

A computer or laptop represents a significant investment, so it’s a good idea to know how to take care of it. Regular maintenance and care will ensure you get many years of good service. Check out our tips below!

 

1.  This one isn’t hard to understand: keep your drinks away, and don’t eat directly over the computer. Liquids and electronics never mix, and crumbs under the keys are an open invitation for insects.

2.  Protect your computer during lightning storms by installing surge protectors. Surge protector strips prevent your electronic appliances from blowing out when lightning strikes.

3.  The computer keyboard is the 3^rd dirtiest surface in the household. Clean beneath the keys using a can of compressed air, and spray a cloth with disinfectant to wipe down the key surfaces. Never spray disinfectant directly onto the keyboard as the liquid could damage the components beneath the keys.

4.  Don’t put your laptop on the floor. The fans that suck in air to cool down internal components can also suck up dirt, clogging up the inside and reducing performance. Make sure the fan vents underneath your laptop are kept clear. This prevents damage by overheating.

5.  If you’re using a lithium-ion battery in your laptop (most new laptops have them), don’t let it completely run out, as this shortens its lifespan. Recharge the battery before it is depleted ¾ of the way.

6.  Keep magnets away from your computers. The hard drives of older-model computers can be wiped by running magnets over them. For new-style computers with magnets there is a risk of damaging your hard drive.

7.  When plugging external devices (such as USBs and cables) into your computer, never force them in. Always plug them in gently to prevent damage to the delicate internal components.

8.  Regularly scan your computer with certified, up-to-date anti-virus/ anti-spyware software. The last thing you want is a virus corrupting your operating systems, and hackers stealing your information.

9.  Defrag your hard drive from time to time to improve performance. Make sure it is done at a time when you won’t need your computer, as it can take up to several hours.

10.  Backup your data on a regular basis, should something happen to your computer. There is nothing more frustrating than losing information, and having to replace it all over again.

 

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