Top Tips for Computer Maintenance

Let's face it; computer maintenance can be a pain. For most home users, having to constantly update operating systems and install anti- virus programs is a nuisance. In organizations and offices, hardware problems are generally the bigger issue.

IT maintenance personnel routinely encounter PCs that won't boot, or periodically freeze and lock-up. There are a wide variety of reasons why such problems occur. This article gives you a few things on how to prevent the most common problems in computers. 

A common problem affecting the performance of most PCs is having too many background programs running. Users often install all sorts of random applications, most of which are rarely ever used. Many of these programs automatically launch when Windows starts up, taking up a lot of RAM.

A good way to avoid this is to set a strict policy about how programs are being installed. Most offices have a limited set of applications that they really need, so you can restrict the installation of any other programs. 

Another common problem is users absent-mindedly switching off the power supply when the PC hasn't yet shut down. If the hard disk is still running when this happens, there is a possibility that the reader heads can damage the disk. It's also possible for that important Windows files may be damaged, causing operating system (OS) problems later.

One solution is to eliminate power switches at workstations. This would leave just one way to turn off a PC and that is by pressing the power button on the CPU box. You can configure this button, such that it systematically shuts down the PC instead of going off abruptly. There are various settings that can be used to get better performance out of the PC.

A good computer maintenance practice is to ensure reasonably cool ambient operating temperatures. Performance of electronic equipment is sensitive to temperature, and heat adversely affects it. The cooler a room, the better the PCs will work. Most PC issues arise as a result of overheating. There are various tasks that require a lot of different parts to move. The friction generates quite a lot of heat, which is why the PC comes fitted with cooling fans. An accumulation of dust may mean that these fans are no longer as effective as they were meant to be. This would also mean that the heat levels will rise and put your PC at risk. 

Upgrading your PC hardware could also be one of the reasons for added heating. Although better hardware may mean better performance, it will also mean added requirements on your fan to keep it cool. Unfortunately most people do not upgrade the fans with the rest of the hardware. This obviously leaves an old, not so competent fan trying to do a job meant for a more modern and efficient fan. If you are going to upgrade your hardware go all the way or better yet, get a professional or perhaps more experience person to assist you with the upgrade.