Proper computer maintenance will help keep your PC running smoothly. A few minutes spent on updates and tests can avert sluggish performance and frustrating crashes. You’ll read here 7 Important Computer Maintenance Tips.

Here are some computer maintenance tips:

Install Updated Antivirus Security Software

Install a good antivirus program and set up a regular scan. Some computers come with a pre-installed antivirus program, but be sure the antivirus is installed and is set up to regularly search for malware and delete them. There are many free antivirus programs such as Avast, AVG, and Avira available if you need them. But no matter what, it is essential to protect your computer against viruses.

Consistently Backup Data

Create restore points and consistently back up your data. You may back up your files on the hard drive (or an external hard drive or the Cloud to be extra safe). Computers usually come with a program to create a system restore points (Time Machine on Macs, System Restore on Windows computers) that save a complete version of your computer that you can return to later. This is helpful if a virus has completely crashed your computer and you can’t find out how to get rid of it. Simply go back to before the virus was introduced. Set up the program to automatically create regular backups or you can install a third-party program to do this.

Keep Your System & Programs Updated

Software developers regularly update everything from your operating system to all other programs you use regularly. These updates make sure your software is running at top efficiency. These updates also regularly plug security holes so you should install updates as soon as you are notified to protect your computer against malicious spyware and viruses.

Uninstall Unused Programs and Files

If you have an older operating system regularly defragment the hard drive to keep the computer from slowing down. Make sure to uninstall unused programs and files. The more free space your computer has the faster it will run. Do a disk cleanup regularly to clear out junk files that get downloaded by your browser or other temporary program files that take up space.

Always Browse Safely

To avoid viruses and phishing scams always browse safely. Malicious software that destroys computers, finds its way to your computer by you unknowingly clicking on it. Always read the web address before you click a link in a search result. Never click through on a suspicious pop-up window, don’t give login information even if the requester claims to be from a reputable firm and never open any email or email attachment you are unsure of.

Clean Out Dust and Grime

Clean out dust that accumulates outside and inside of your computer. Built-up dust may cause overheating and could become the reason your computer breaks down. Just use a small vacuum to remove dust and other particles and spray with compressed canned air. For tower-style desktops remove the side panel to carefully clear the dust inside the tower for optimum performance.

Always Plug Your Computer into a Surge Protector

Electric storms or surges may cause irreparable damage to sensitive components inside your computer. The best way to protect it from power surges is to plug your computer into a surge protector.

If your computer is suffering from an issue and you don’t have a solution, contact a reliable Computer Repair Technician in order to fix it.