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A list of recommended computer care tips to keep your computer in good health.
Overview
Your computer is a critical tool for your academic and professional work at Mount Holyoke College. Whether you’ve got a College-owned or personal computer, you want it to last as long as possible.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of recommended computer care tips to keep your computer in good health.
Restart regularly
It’s tempting to leave your computer on for extended periods of time to keep your files and tabs at the ready. But restarting your computer regularly can improve its performance and extend its life. Think of it like brushing your teeth, but for your computer.
Plus, if you log into modern browsers, they often store your browser tabs and history so they re-appear when you open the browser again after a restart.
Why restart? (Rather than shut down)
When you think your computer needs a fresh start, it may feel like shutting your computer down completely and rebooting it is the way to go. However, for most machines, a shutdown is more like putting a bookmark in your computer so you can come back to it later.
In contrast, a restart will:
- Completely shut down programs to free up your processor for the tasks you need done
- Flush your computer’s memory
- Clear the processor cache
- Allow updates to be applied
When should you restart?
We recommend restarting at least once a week, but you should definitely restart if:
- Your computer feels sluggish or unresponsive
- You need to boot into “safe mode”
- An update requires it
- You’re not going to be using it for a few day or longer
Carry laptops in cases
If you bring your computer on the go, make sure that you transport it in a padded carrying case or backpack laptop sleeve. These not only protect computers from scratches and dents, but they also prevent dust and debris from getting inside the fans, vents, etc.
Install antivirus or malware protection software
Antivirus software helps protect your computer against harmful software that is written to transmit, destroy or change important information on your computer.
Find out more about antivirus protection for College-owned and personal computers on the LITS Antivirus and Malware Protection page.
Charge laptops smartly
It's okay for your laptop to remain plugged in when it is fully charged. Modern computer batteries have controls that prevent them from accepting a charge when full, so they are not damaged.
It is good to exercise the battery every once in a while by unplugging it and letting the battery drain to a low percentage. About the only bad thing to do is to allow it to completely run out.
Clean the screen
Another part of your computer that you should keep clean is the screen. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning, and always use a soft cloth or wipes specifically made for electronics.
Use a surge protector
Just one power surge can fry your computer while it’s plugged in. Protect your system with a surge protector, and carry one with you, too.
Avoid extreme temperatures
Moderate temperatures of 68 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius) are ideal temperatures for computers.
Avoid exposing your computer to extreme temperatures by, for instance, leaving your laptop in a hot car or cold, damp basement.
Secure equipment while you're away
Going out of town for a bit? Store any equipment you’re leaving unattended in a safe, dry place that is out of the way to protect it from unforeseen environmental forces like water leaks, cats, trip hazards, and more.