Most computers today run at least some form of basic antivirus. In the modern day however, threats have evolved to be more sophisticated, more damaging, and much more common. Ransomware, malware, phishing, and zero-day attacks all work to attack unpatched systems without strong security.
Today, to keep up with increasing threats, you need a supplemental AV to add to Windows Defender. A layered system means more than just virus scanning. A comprehensive security package includes prevention, detection, and system monitoring at a minimum. These layers work together to provide security many times stronger than a stand-alone system.
Reliable, up-to-date, security keeps you safe online. It’s a resolution you simply can’t afford to skip.
Clean Up Files
Cleaning up unnecessary files is the number one way to gain additional storage space on a typical device. It’s cost-effective without any extra hardware purchases.
Almost all computers have files hanging around from old software, data or applications they no longer need. Just like tidying the spare room or de-cluttering the kitchen, clearing files off your desktop and organizing your emails will leave your computer feeling refreshed and new again.
Restart Your Computer
Fully shutting down a computer and rebooting can take time. When you are watching the clock, waiting to start a task or get work done, it can feel like an eternity. Most of us enjoy simply opening the lid or powering on the screen to have everything ready to run.
At times, a computer may not be fully restarted in weeks or even months. Our poor habits can cause issues with running software and the operating system too. Hardware updates, security patches, and critical updates often wait for a reboot before they install. Waiting too long can leave security flaws open and the system vulnerable to attack.
Merely performing a reboot every once in a while (we recommend weekly) can secure your system and help get rid of software problems. Often updates prevent new issues from cropping up too.
Special Note: Just shutting down a computer using the shutdown button does not accomplish the same thing as a RESTART..
Keep Your Computer Away from Dust
Dust, hair, and household debris are one of the major causes of premature death for computers. Fans, used to cool components, suck in house dust as well as the air they need. This dust often clogs up the inside of the device and overheats internal components.
If possible, keep a tower PC off the carpet, don’t run your laptop sitting on the floor, blanket, or soft furnishings. Cleaning out your device is as good a resolution as any, and there’s never a better time than now.
For a little help sticking to your digital new year resolutions and starting off on the right foot, give me a call today at 210-549-6477
