Spring is the perfect season to clean and reorganize your home, and your tech gadgets should be no exception. If your organization is implementing a remote or hybrid workplace model, then it's even more important to do a full sweep of your tech essentials, as dirty and disorganized tech can hinder you from achieving optimum productivity.
Follow these five tips to get your digital spring cleaning done in no time.
1. Deep clean and disinfect your devices
The dust and dirt that build up on your devices and their peripherals can cause your tech to work sluggishly or worse, malfunction. It can also be really unsightly. To clean your devices, unplug them and use a can of compressed air to blast away all the dirt and dust. You may also want to try using an old toothbrush dipped in alcohol to clean every nook and cranny.
Don’t forget to dust out your computer’s vents and fan, too. If your computer has been running a little slower than usual, it might be due to dust buildup inside the case. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any remaining dust, and be sure to avoid touching the fan blades with your hands.
Wipe down your electronic screens as well. Whether it’s your computer monitor, TV screen, or smartphone, all those fingerprints and smudges can make it tough to see the screen clearly. Clean your screens using a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water or a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools, like paper towels or harsh chemicals, as these could damage the delicate surfaces of your devices.
2. Uninstall unused programs and apps
Over time, your computer can get bogged down by all the software and apps you’ve installed, especially those that you no longer use. Unused apps not only take up memory space but can also cause security vulnerabilities, making it easy for unsolicited ads, data infiltration, and malware to enter your system.
Rid your devices of unused apps by going through your list of programs and deleting those that you no longer need or haven’t used in a long time. This will not only free up some space on your hard drive but will also make your computer run faster and more smoothly while fortifying your security.
3. Organize your desktop
Digital clutter can lower productivity. If your desktop is cluttered with a bunch of files and folders that you never use, it can be tough to find the ones you actually need. To tidy things up, create folders for different types of files or projects, and then move your files to the appropriate folders or subfolders. This will make it easier to find what you’re looking for, and it will also keep your desktop neat and organized.
4. Empty your Recycle Bin
Even if you’ve been deleting files and programs, they’re not actually gone until you empty the Recycle Bin. To do this, just right-click on the bin icon on your desktop and select “Empty Recycle Bin.” This will free up even more space on your hard drive and boost your computer’s efficiency.
5. Run diagnostic tests
Diagnostic tests can help ensure that your device is running as efficiently as possible; they can also identify potential problems with your device before these become major issues. Many device manufacturers offer their own diagnostic tools. For example, Apple has Apple Diagnostics, while Microsoft has Windows Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter. By identifying and fixing potential problems early, you can keep your device running smoothly and avoid any costly or dangerous issues down the road.
By following these tips, you can give your tech a much-needed spring cleaning that will help it run faster and more efficiently. If you want to ensure that your apps, systems, and devices are always running optimally, partner with one of Toronto’s most trusted managed IT services provider: XBASE Technologies. Drop our experts a line today.