Imagine you’re deep into a project, racing to finish on time, and suddenly your computer freezes. It’s frustrating, right? Your pressure rises, your work stops, and you don’t know how to fix it.
Today, with around 16% of the UK employees working from home, having a reliable computer is essential. Whether on video calls for meetings, working with spreadsheets, or writing reports, your computer needs to perform well.
However, numerous remote workers don’t realise how important it is to care for their computers until something goes wrong. Gary at PC ReFix said, ‘One of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring small performance issues – what starts as slow loading times can turn into full system failures if not addressed early.’
This makes perfect sense. A slow or faulty computer can disrupt your focus, derail your workflow, and possibly lead to expensive repairs. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to keep your computer running smoothly. Here’s how to ensure your technology is ready when needed.
Practical Strategies to Keep Your Computer Run Smoothly
Here are some practical strategies that will keep your computer running smoothly:
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Declutter Your Digital Space
A cluttered computer runs slowly. Over time, unneeded files, old software, and forgotten downloads can take up space and slow it down.
- Uninstall Unused Programs: If you haven’t used an app in a few months, you probably don’t need it. Clear up space by removing unnecessary applications.
- Delete Temporary Files: On Windows, employ Disk Cleanup. On a Mac, open Storage Management to delete unnecessary system files.
- Organise Your Documents: Create labelled folders and move old files to an external storage device or cloud services like Google Drive or OneDrive.
Regularly cleaning your digital space can boost your computer’s speed and efficiency.
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Keep Computer Up to Date
Using old software isn’t merely a drag on efficiency; it’s also a security gamble. When developers roll out updates, they’re boosting performance and fixing weak spots.
- Turn on automatic updates for your operating system, antivirus software, and essential apps.
- Also, check for updates on your external devices, such as printers, keyboards, and monitors.
- Update Your Web Browser: An outdated browser can slow down your internet and make you vulnerable to security risks.
Make sure all your programs are updated so your computer works well and stays safe from online threats.
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Keep Your Computer Physically Clean
Your computer’s physical condition affects its performance. Dust, dirt, and pet hair can block the vents, leading to overheating and slower speeds.
- Clean your keyboard and screen frequently using a microfiber cloth and a safe cleaning solution.
- Use compressed air to remove dust from vents, fans, and ports, especially if your laptop is overheating.
- Keep food and drinks away from your desk to avoid spills and crumbs hitting your keyboard.
A tidy computer isn’t just more pleasant to look at and operates more smoothly.
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Manage Your Startup Programs for a Faster Boot Time
Is your computer taking ages to boot up? It might be because too many programs are running in the background.
To Check Startup Programs:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager on Windows, then click on the “Startup” tab.
- On Mac, go to System Settings and select “Login Items.”
Turn off any apps you don’t need to make your device start faster and free up some memory space.
By limiting the number of programs that start automatically, you can make sure your computer boots up quickly and is ready for use as soon as you are.
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Invest in Reliable Hardware and Accessories
Even if you’ve been taking good care of your computer, it could be time to consider upgrading some of its parts if it’s still running slow.
- If you often multitask, upgrade your RAM for better performance.
- Switch to a Solid-State Drive for quicker boot-up times and faster file access.
- If you use a laptop for long hours, use a cooling pad to keep it from overheating.
Spending a little money on upgrading your computer’s hardware can make it run faster and last longer.
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Back Up Your Data to Avoid Disasters
Imagine your computer stops working, or someone breaks into it, and you lose all your important files. That’s why it’s essential to copy your stuff often.
According to Privacy Engine, companies hit by a data breach typically face a hefty £3.5 million price tag, and over one in five firms say they’ve felt the impact. This underscores just how crucial it is to regularly back up your files to avoid any potential losses.
- Use external hard drives or cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or iCloud to store your files.
- Set up automatic backups to keep your files safe.
Knowing you have a backup system gives you peace of mind and keeps your work safe.
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Run Regular Security Checks to Stay Safe Online
Cybersecurity threats are rising, and remote workers are becoming the main targets for hackers. To protect your computer, make sure to follow these steps:
- Install a trusted antivirus program to check for malware.
- Turn on your firewall to prevent unauthorised access.
- Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Phishing emails continue to be a prevalent cyber threat, particularly for those working remotely. Studies reveal that nearly 22% of UK businesses fell victims to at least one cybercrime. Among these incidents, phishing was the dominant culprit, impacting 90% of affected businesses. Do not click on any suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
Embracing a proactive approach to security is crucial for safeguarding yourself against costly and stressful cyber threats.
Conclusion
Keeping your home office computer running well is easier than you think. It just takes some regular care. You can avoid frustrating slowdowns and costly repairs by cleaning your workspace, updating your software, dusting your hardware, and watching out for security threats. Start using these simple practices now. You’ll enjoy a computer that works smoothly and feel confident that your technology will be ready when needed.
And if your computer’s been acting up a lot; crashing, freezing, or the fan’s sounding like a jet engine – don’t ignore it! It’s an indication that something’s wrong. Run some tests, clean out some space, or get a pro to take a look. Doing something now can save you from a total system meltdown later.
Happy remote working!
