So this month, I thought we would have a review of a few basics.
Every business heavily depends on computers for the day to day running of most business processes. Therefore it is essential to keep them running in good shape and avoid them getting faulty during a crucial unexpected hour. Here is a checklist every business must have ready to ensure the proper working of computers. Educate the users of computers in your office regarding this and ask them to perform those regular tasks form time to time so that the computers stay in good shape.
Hardware maintenance checklist:
Clean the computer and accessories: Dust and dirt are big enemies for the health of computers as they are for human health. Keyboards, CPUs and other computer accessories have enough crevices to give room for dust collection. Air compressor can help suck those dust particles from the computer parts.
Clean the monitor: It is always best to educate people not to touch the monitor with their fingers to leave oil and dirt and those nasty smudges. Though stains and smudges are a minor problem on the monitors, they always turn into major problems if left uncared. They must only be cleaned with the proper kit meant for LCD displays. There are also disposable wipes to clean the monitor screens.
Organize the cords: Every new computer peripheral adds up to the existing cords. Shut down the system, remove all those plugs, remove the unused cords, group the different cords depending on which direction they run and bind them together. Cable housing, twist tie, reusable Velcro ties are all good options for this purpose.
Software maintenance checklist:
Perform a full system scan for viruses and spyware: software maintenance is a complicated process. Run the conventional virus protection and spyware detection software. Virus protection scan must be run once in every two or four weeks.
Uninstall unused programs: Over a period computers gather several software installs depending on the need. At regular intervals check the control panel to see what programs are installed that you do not use. Uninstall them from your system to speed it up.
Check for updates on all programs: It is always advisable to go for the latest versions foal l the programs you use. From time to time, check for regular updates online from trusted sources and install those patches for upgrading each program. New updates always come with added security features and enhanced performance features and so can speed up your computer.
Upgrade or reinstall the operating system: Installations, updates, uninstalls and other functions bring some changes on the Operating System. Also viruses, data corruption and spyware can also inflict degradation on the computer performance. Reinstalling the OS or upgrading it for a recent one is a good solution to speed up the computer.
This advice is a little generic, and sometimes it’s worth calling in the professionals. If you would like to discuss anything based on this article feel free to call me on 038 360 400.
