How often do you set aside time to look after your computer? Taking an hour or two to check your PC is operating at its best can be hugely beneficial, whether you use it for work or leisure.
It’s worth knowing what to look out for if you want to keep on top of PC maintenance.
Why Focus on Looking After My PC?
There are a few reasons why you must look after your PC. First, regularly running checks can help to iron out any problems caused by out-of-date software and other issues.
Also, your computer will run longer if you look after it. You can expect a laptop to last at least four years, but it can sometimes be as much as 12 years.
How to Keep Your PC Working Well
To get the most out of your desktop PC or laptop, here are some tips to help you make its upkeep a habit.
. Install updates
While there are instances where some updates can slow things down, they’re designed to improve processes. Schedule your next update if it’s been a while since you last ran one. Your PC should then run smoother.
. Think security
Updating your PC can also help improve security. Updating web browsers, extensions, and antivirus software can all be beneficial. This is because it can make your data less vulnerable to bad actors.
You could also use a virtual private network (VPN), which is a tool that can help to protect your IP address and location. A VPN for multiple devices can secure your computers and networks.
. Back it up
It’s always a good idea to prepare for the worst. The last thing you want is to lose important files or documents. So, get into the habit of saving what you need to an external drive. This can be cloud-based or a removable hard drive. In some cases, you might feel more comfortable using them both.
. Switch it off
Leaving your PC on can cause problems. For example, there’s a risk of your laptop overheating, which can make it run slowly or break completely. Switching it off when you’re not using it can be an excellent habit to get into.
. Check startup programs
Look at the programs that open automatically when you start your computer. Removing some from this initial starting point should make it run faster.
Are you planning on looking after your PC? What steps will you take to make sure it’s running well?