Most computer savvy people neglect certain practices, but older adults may not even realize they should be doing something in particular. Therefore, it can help to have a list available to check every day or every time you use something new.

Check Protection

Your virus protection software is designed to start working when you turn your computer on. However, it’s important to check your software every day to ensure that it is working and that there are no issues. While good programs will alert you when there’s a problem or when it gets shut off, it’s still best to double-check.

Run Scans Frequently

Your virus protection program may be set to scan automatically at predetermined times. It’s designed so you don’t have to remember to scan, but whenever you download something from the Internet or connect a new storage device, you should run a scan to ensure that there are no problems. It’s always a good idea to be proactive when scanning for threats instead of waiting until the next scan time.

Locking The Account

Whether you live alone or with family members, it’s always a good idea to lock your account using a password. If someone broke into the house and stole your laptop, they wouldn’t have to do anything to open your files and photos if it wasn’t locked. To do this, go to your account settings and set up a new password, making it hard so that people can’t easily guess what it is.

Defrag Weekly

Your hard drive works like a person, in that it will move stuff around, set stuff down and may not put it back in the right place. Over time, all that rearranging can cause the computer to run slowly, freeze up or work harder than it needs to. Running your defrag program once a week will help to keep everything running smoothly from one tune-up to the next.

Quit Programs You’re Not Using

Sometimes, when you’re finished with something, you leave it up in case you need it again. However, doing so may cause the computer to run new processes slowly. Also, when you close out of the program, check to make sure it’s not in your system tray, still running.

Turn It Off

Most people leave their computers and laptops on overnight because they have built-in screensavers or will hibernate when not used for a period of time. However, it’s a waste of electricity and could cause problems in the long run. For example, your computer needs to rest and cool down after a hard day’s use, just like you. When you don’t let it, it could cause it to freeze or respond slower to your requests.