Simple steps to keep your computer running trouble free

While the major steps to keep your computer running trouble free will be taken care of by your managed service provider – such as keeping programs up to date, enterprise level anti-virus and anti-malware programs running, etc., there are several, simple steps you can take to keep your computer running its best without the help of a support tech. In fact, your support team will be grateful. Doing these things will help extend the life of your workstation and keep things running trouble free.

Regular PC maintenance you can do for your computers without relying on Tech Support

Keep files and folders organized

Keeping your files and folders organized will allow you to find things easier. It will also help you save space on your computer by avoiding duplicates. I’ve written about this earlier so I won’t rehash everything again. Quick reminder: Back up extra photos/files that aren’t referenced regularly to an external drive.

Keep your inbox in check

This is especially important if using Outlook or offline mail. Unneeded messages and junk mail take up valuable space on the computer. Programs will take longer to load if they need to resync thousands of messages that are really just spam.

Empty the Recycle Bin

Empty out your recycle bin every few months. When you delete a file, it doesn’t immediately disappear. It gets moved to a recycle bin “just in case” it was accidentally deleted, and it can be restored at a click of the mouse. Emptying this recycle bin will free up space on your computer to be used elsewhere.

Empty out downloads folder

Just like your recycle bin, your downloads folder can quickly build up. You will inevitably find multiple versions of software installation files, random images, and files that were downloaded temporarily but never revisited. Go through this folder regularly. Move any items of importance into other folders or onto an external hard drive to reference later.

Physically clean the computer and keyboard

A dirty computer can be uncomfortable to use and also has a chance of running too hot. This can lead to overheated components and shortening the life of the system. Turn the computer off and wipe down all surfaces of the computer with a microfiber or clean, cotton cloth. Use a can of compressed air to remove dust, hair, crumbs, etc. from any crevices on the computer and the keyboard. Don’t forget to clear any fans, ports, vents.

For more in-depth maintenance, you can reach out to our support team and ask them to do a health check on your workstation where they can run system scans, defragment the hard drive if necessary, and let you know how you’re doing on RAM and Hard Drive space requirements. Give them a call at 508-892-5555, option 2.