Monthly PC Maintenance Schedule
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Scan for Viruses, Malware, and Spyware
Viruses, Malware, and Spyware can really cause a lot of havoc if left unchecked. I try to run a scan every month at the very least. It may even be best to scan weekly or every other week. I would highly recommend setting up some type of automated schedule within your virus protection software so you don’t forget to do this. I like to schedule this scan for a time that I am away from my computer. For example, lunch on Friday is good for me as I am often away from my PC. This way, I not disrupted by the scan too much.
Keep Windows Up To Date
By default, Windows should keep itself up to date automatically. Sometimes, you will need to allow Windows to install updates by giving permission. I recommend installing updates right away. However, if for some reason this doesn’t work for you, then you should check for and install all updates on a monthly or even more regular basis.
Defragment the Hard Drive
Another task that is worth doing monthly is defragmenting the hard drive. Defragmenting can help keep your hard drive running as efficiently as possible. Note: If you have an SSD drive, you should not defragment monthly as it adds to the wear and tear of the drive.
Delete any Temporary Files, Unused Files, and Unused Programs
I like to tidy up my files and folders every month. This is helpful from both a computer maintenance point of view and an organizational point of view. Every month I like to clear out my temporary internet files, delete any documents I will no longer need, and check to see if their are any programs that I don’t use anymore.
Backup Any Important Files
I actually have my backup process automated. However, if you do not, I would recommend backing up any important
files and folder every month. If you are working with any really important files or if you have files that you have put a ton of time into, you may want to instantly back these up so you don’t lose any work or important data.
Check Your Computer For Bad Sectors
If your hard drive is having any issues, you will want to know about them and get them fixed ASAP. Running the Windows Checkdisk (chkdsk) program monthly can help prevent any unwanted issues with your system.
Do a Full System Antivirus Scan
Double-check that your antivirus program is up-to-date with the latest virus definitions and perform a full-system scan to verify that your system is still clear of any Trojans, viruses, or other malware.
Uninstall Unused Programs
If you have the tendency to install a lot of programs then review the list of the ones that you currently installed & remove any that you don’t need.
Clear Out the Dust Bunnies
Dust can clog your system fans, lead to overheating issues and even cause hardware failure if it’s allowed to get too out of hand. If you have the technical know-how, carefully open up your computer and use a can of compressed air to remove any dust bunnies that have collected. Call us at (985) 288-2669 or consult a computer professional if you don’t feel comfortable opening up your PC and/or cleaning out the dust.
Don’t skip on monthly PC maintenance!
Giving your computer a little TLC every month can go a long way. Make sure that you set some time aside each month to knock out your monthly PC maintenance duties. Your computer will run faster and last longer.
Don’t have the time or prefer to have PC maintenance done by a professional? Contact us online or call 985-288-2669 to learn more our computer maintenance services.
