Growing up I looked at my dad as one of the world's best mechanics. He not only fixed cars but built them from scratch! When I bought my first car he told me "
if you just take care of it and maintain it regularly, it will last you a long time". Computers are exactly the same way! Even though updates regularly out date our computers, we can preserve our investments by performing regular maintenance. Cleaning your computer is one of the best, and lucky for us it's one of the easiest, ways we can take care of our computers!
- Clean the computer. Go ahead, this isn't a trick instruction. Dust loves computers and will suffocate it if we don't wipe it completely down often. Front, back, sides, top, you get the point!
- Clean out your 'documents' folder. That folder fills up faster then we realize! Whenever you save that receipt of your purchase, pictures, account statements, instructions, tutorials, those documents fill up quick and use memory. A great way to clean your folders is to simply organize your folders. Make new folders and title them general topics that will group the documents you save. Then simply click on the document and drag it over the new folder you created and drop it in there. As you go through your documents make sure and delete any that you no longer need.
- Clean off the desktop. This time I am talking figuratively! The desktop isn't just what your computer is sitting on but also the main screen on your computer. The desktop hold icons, also known as shortcuts, to programs. You may also have documents and pictures stored here. It's a good idea to have only the most commonly used folder and programs on your desktop screen to keep it organized.
- Empty the trash. Yup, I'm talking figuratively again! The trash icon, typically found in the upper right-hand corner of your desktop screen, holds all your items you delete from folders. Your computer doesn't completely erase these items until you empty your trash. Think about it like your kitchen garbage. Even though you threw the stinky diaper away it is still sitting there until you completely get rid of it. The trash folder is using your computer's memory. Empty it and help your computer stay clean!
By organizing the contents of your computer and deleting anything unnecessary you can help speed your computer up!
