Computer Maintenance Tips

You may not realize it, but your computer and your car have something in common: they both need regular maintenance. No, you don’t need to change your computer’s oil. But you should be updating your software, keeping your anti-virus subscription up to date, and checking for spyware. Continue to read on to learn what you can do to help improve your computer’s security. Here are some basics maintenance tasks you can do today to start improving your computer’s security. Be sure you make this part of your ongoing maintenance as well.

• Sign up for software update e-mail notices. Many software companies will send you e-mail whenever a software update is available. This is particularly important for your operating system (e.g., Microsoft Windows® or Macintosh), your anti-virus program, and your firewall.
• Register your software. If you still have registration forms for existing software, send them in. And be sure to register new software in the future. This is another way for the software manufacturer to alert you when new updates are available.
• Install software updates immediately. When you get an update notice, download the update immediately and install it. (Remember, downloading and installing are two separate tasks.)

An ounce of prevention, few simple steps will help you keep your files safe and clean.

• Update your software
• Backup your files
• Use antivirus software and keep it updated
• Change your passwords