Keeping your laptop or computer in good repair is essential to ensuring it is safe, secure and performing at its very best.
The performance of your computer can reduce over time due to an accumulation of temporary internet files, software and viruses which may have been installed on your machine without your knowledge. A disorganised hard drive and internal dust can also lead to a drastic reduction in your computer’s performance which could eventually lead to your computer crashing and the loss of your precious files.
Having a firewall on your home network is absolutely essential before using the internet. Firewalls help protect your computer from malicious spyware, adware and viruses – all of which might allow hackers to gain access to your computer.
Make sure you have a valid and updated version of anti-virus software installed on your computer and perform a full scan at least once a month. Anti-virus software alerts you to any potential problems with your system and removes or isolates viruses that may have infected your machine. Ensure your anti-virus software is continuously running when using your machine and act upon any prompts to ‘fix’ your system and remove viruses. If you ever get a message on your screen that you don’t understand call 01908 371 488 or email info@dekko-it.co.uk
Be careful when downloading information or software from the internet as the files may contain viruses or malware (software that ‘spies’ on your internet usage). Always use reputable sites that you trust, err on the side of caution when any popup or message box appears claiming to be able to fix your computer for you. If you ever get a message on your screen that you don’t understand call 01908 371 488 or email info@dekko-it.co.uk
Every time you use the internet, information is stored on your computer for later use which eventually impacts on the performance of your computer. Follow your computer’s instructions how to remove ‘cookies’ (usually by deleting your browsing history). Please note removing cookies will delete any usernames and passwords which may have been saved on your favourite sites.
Once a month you should free up space on your hard drive by clearing out any unnecessary files using the ‘disk clean-up’ option. This allows you to remove any clutter which may be impacting on your computer’s performance. Not all temporary files are removed from the disk clean-up in windows, if you want a tougher clean-up of files Contact Dekko Projects and we will arrange a remote support session to give your computer a spring clean.
You can also free up space on your hard drive manually by deleting any files you no longer need or storing them on a portable device such as a memory stick or a CD. Always ensure that you back-up your important files regularly to prevent losing your data should the worst happen and your computer does break down. Microsoft Windows 7 includes backup software that does an excellent job at automatically backing up your data and the system state of your machine. We strongly recommend you use Windows 7 backup with an external hard drive.
Whichever operating system your computer uses, you will receive regular prompts to update your software. These updates will improve your security, enhance your computer’s performance and are also a way of protecting your computer from new viruses that may have come to light since you first installed your program. If you wish we can remote into your computer and check you have the correct updates for the software you are running.
Lastly try to store your computer in a cool environment, which is well ventilated and have it internally cleaned professionally to remove dust every six months.
Contact Dekko Projects for all the computer services you need, including computer and laptop repair, virus removal, anti-virus software installation, internal cleaning and replacing fans.
Please contact us on 01908 371 488 or email info@dekko-it.co.uk