Keep Your Computer Running Smoothly

It’s always a good idea to make sure your laptop or PC is running smoothly. While we do all we can to keep hacking and other cybercrime at bay, there are steps you can take to keep your device running its best. Here are a few tips that our IT department recommends as best practices.

• Restart your computer at least once a week. Performing a restart is different than shutting down your machine. A restart will end all processes as well as clear your computer’s memory and processor cache so your device will operate more efficiently. 

• If you work in multiple locations (home/office or multiple offices), when moving between your locations, make sure to shut down to ensure a fresh start when booting up your laptop at each desk.  Simply closing the lid of your laptop when transporting may cause connectivity issues later.

• When you’re not using your computer for an extended period of time, shut down your computer and unplug from the docking station or power cord to prolong your battery’s useful life. 

• Watch for pop-ups from the Software Center. This program pushes out the latest Windows updates to all our computers. Keep your computer up to date by restarting when instructed.

• Protect your passwords and make them difficult to guess. Use a random string of letters, numbers, and symbols to make your passwords complex. Instead of keeping a spreadsheet or other list, consider a password protection program like KeePass to encrypt and store your password information. Contact the Service Desk if you don’t have KeePass on your computer. Instructions for using KeePass can be found here.

• Wherever you are working, lock your computer every time you step away from your desk. Even during the quickest break or coffee grab, leaving your computer logged in and open leaves your information at risk. 

• It may seem fast and easy to save files to your desktop, but it’s not. Over time, you’ll be working through a mess of clutter and those desktop files are not safe if your computer crashes. Instead, save your important documents to your U:/ drive. The U:/ drive is on our network servers, is backed up regularly and your files are easily accessible when you switch computers. Remember the G:/drive for files shared with your team, too.

If you have any questions or computer-related needs, please contact the Service Desk. In addition, the IT Quick Guide houses more information and tips on using and keeping your computer in its best shape.