Your computers and equipment are crucial for smooth business operations, so it’s important to know how to look after them. There are plenty of easy steps you and your team can follow to keep your computers in top shape. Let’s dive into seven tips to include in your regular routine!

1. Protect your business against cyber threats

We talk about this a lot, but that’s because it is essential for keeping your business records and equipment safe! The right software stops hackers and virus attacks from both passive and direct sources. It will also run effortlessly in the background, provide reporting, cover a large number of devices, and come with extra features.

We use endpoint detection and response rather than simple virus protection because it offers more robust security without hindering our devices’ performance. EDR is a cyber security solution that combines continuous monitoring and automated response capabilities. It is designed to detect advanced threats, including unknown malware and ransomware, in real-time. With EDR, we can protect your devices and data from cyber-attacks proactively.

2. Protect your laptops

If your team uses laptops at the office, on the go, or at home, you need to make sure they are protected. Use padded laptop covers (make sure they are always on unless cleaning the device) as well as slipcovers. When transporting laptops, always be sure to use a protective bag. Make sure this is a case designed for laptops, as opposed to a general bag that doesn’t offer the same level of protection. Additionally, use a security cable when you need to keep your device even more secure.

3. Take care of the batteries on each laptop

Laptops are meant to be used wirelessly, but you should still maintain their batteries. Once a laptop is charged, remove the charger or battery and use the battery fully before charging it again. Laptop batteries have a lifespan of only a few years, so be sure you and your staff know how to take care of them.

4. Defragment and declutter

PC users must defragment their computers regularly to keep them running smoothly. Mac users don’t have to worry about this because defragmenting is done automatically. You can make disk defragmenting part of your team’s weekly or monthly work schedule. If you’d prefer for someone else to handle it and don’t have an IT team, a company can help you take care of all of your tech needs.

You can use the following steps to access the disk defragmenter.

• Click Start
• Go to Programs then Accessories
• Click on System tools
• Click on Disk Defragmenter

Decluttering can also help you speed up your computers. Start by deleting files you no longer use or need and storing everything you need to keep. You can use cloud storage or physical storage (or both) to store your records. Finally, use the Disk Cleanup feature on your computer, and be sure to clear out your browser history and download history.

5. Disable unused programs

Sometimes computers get bogged down because so many programs load upon startup. Make sure that the programs you don’t use, or that you don’t want your team to use, are disabled. This helps with efficiency as well as safety and productivity. You can do this by going to the “Run” option on your computer and typing in “msconfig”. This is a list of all the programs that load upon startup. Just uncheck those you don’t want running.

6. Don’t use too many programs at one time

Even when you disable programs you don’t use, if you use too many at one time, it will still bog down your device. To stop this from happening, only open the programs you need. When you are using an internet browser or program with tabs, don’t use too many either. Your computer only has so much memory to perform tasks. If you do use too many, be patient while closing things down and your computer should return to normal.

7. Keep your computers clean

Part of taking care of your computers is keeping them physically clean. Dust and debris can build up on the components, which can cause them to get too hot and break down. Here are some basics about cleaning your equipment.

• Computer monitors and accessories (like the keyboard and mouse) can be cleaned every week. Use a damp cloth or alcohol wipe. Be careful not to leave any moisture on ports and be gentle with the screen.
• Cleaning the ports requires a little more work, but it is well worth it because it can help you avoid having to take the computers apart completely to clean.
• If the computer is on, turn it off.
• Take a can of compressed air or a fan and use it to blow the dust out of the ports.
• Use a toothpick to clean out any mess.

Use the compressed air or fan again.

• Use a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to clean around the outside of the port.
• Wait until everything is dry before turning the computer back on.

Your Total technology solutions in Amarillo, Texas

At Andrews & Associates, we get technology. That’s why we are prepared to help operations of all sizes run safely and smoothly in an ever-changing digital world. Call us at (806) 242-1088 to learn about our Services. If you’re an existing client, you can Request Support from a team member too.