Tips for Keeping Your HP Computer in Tiptop Condition
Most users exert effort into researching for the best HP computer, ensuring they get a worthwhile investment with their hard-earned money. They store it in a case to keep it away from harmful elements and do other preventive measures to protect it. However, there are times that users commit mistakes which are normal but can be avoided by keeping the following points in mind.
Don’t cover your computer with blankets
As much as possible, keep your HP computer away from blankets or any surface that can suffocate it. These surfaces can block the air that the fans pull in order to cool the computer’s internal components while running or charging. Place the computer on a lap desk or any flat solid surface, instead, to allow it to breathe, cooling its internal parts and keeping its performance stable.
Avoid drinking over your laptop
If you have a habit of placing your drink near your laptop while it’s running, then you need to rectify it. This is because if you spill liquid onto the computer, it can cause damage to its essential parts like chips and components. So, make sure that you place your drinks away from your keyboard. Also, avoid eating above your keyboard since the food’s crumbs and particles can go to its crevices, causing problems later on.
Put your Computer in a case
There is a wide array of computer cases on the market, from hardcovers to sleeves to carrying cases. Any sort of protective case will do for your computer but if you find a durable and sturdy one, then that will be the ideal choice. A cushiony case also works well, proving protection against drops.
Regularly backup your files
Your hard drive won’t tell you when it’s going to wear out, so it’s best to back up your files regularly to prevent loss of data in case the worse happens. Not to mention, it will prevent you from spending money on software and tools to retrieve your files. Backing up your files also help create space for your computer’s memory. There are also cloud services that are simple and efficient, giving you an option to backup your files automatically.
Install antivirus software
A virus can be detrimental to your computer. It will run your programs slower, delete your important folders and documents, and worsen the damage to your computer till it cannot be repaired. However, the risk of these things happening can be reduced by simply installing an anti-virus protection. The software might cost you money but it will be a worthwhile investment when your computer is protected, saving yourself a trip to the computer repair shop.
Clean your monitor with gentle wipes
The monitor is one of the most fragile components of a laptop as it can be cracked easily. Make sure to use only gentle solutions or wipes to keep it in mint condition. Avoid touching the screen with pens or any sharp objects that can leave scratches on its surface.
Avoid placing your laptop near appliances
Appliances such as phones and tablets generate a magnetic field, strong enough to damage your laptop or computer’s hard drive. It can impair your computer’s BIOS that sends commands to your motherboard, which is essential to run basic computer functions. Thus, it’s better to avoid placing your computer near these appliances.
Always keep the lid closed if you’re not using your laptop
This is important to minimize the particles or dust that can settle into the crevices of your laptop’s keyboard. Not only that, it also extends the laptop’s battery life and protects its keyboard from accidental drink spills – which is one of the primary causes of laptop damage.
Set it down on a proper work table
The safest place where you can set down your laptop is your work table or any plain solid surface. You should not take your laptop on the beach since there’s a chance of getting sand in it. The same goes for placing it on your kitchen counter as there’s a risk of dropping into a sink or onto the floor. Above all, you shouldn’t work on your laptop while relaxing in the bathtub, even if it’s not plugged in.
Set up a strong password
This is essential if you are the type of person that always travels a lot or uses your laptop in an unsecured place. Setting up a strong password prevents the risk of getting your personal information accessed by someone. So, avoid using simple passwords like “ABCD1234” or “password” that any thief or hacker could guess. A strong password consists of any unique or unrelated words combined with numbers, for instance, something like “muffin34pillow”.
Use a VPN when accessing your account in public
A virtual private network or VPN directs your internet connection to a secure network, protecting you from hackers that steal your personal information. Make sure to use one when you are plugged into free Wi-Fi networks in hotels, airports, and coffee shops.