Monthly computer care: a 10-minute checklist

Most computer problems we fix would have been avoided by a few minutes of care. Put this in your calendar once a month.

The checklist

1. Install updates: Windows Update or macOS Software Update, then your web browser and main programs
2. Restart properly (not just close the lid): many updates only finish on a restart
3. Check your backup ran recently, and open one file from it to prove it works
4. Check free space: keep at least 15-20% of the drive free; empty Downloads and the Recycle Bin
5. Review browser extensions and remove any you don't recognise or use
6. Glance at your security: Windows Security or your antivirus should show no warnings
7. Look and listen: a fan that's louder than usual or vents full of dust need cleaning

Once a year

• Change the passwords that matter most if you've ever reused them
• Clean the inside of a desktop or have it cleaned
• Check the computer still gets security updates: if not, plan its replacement

Prefer to have it done for you? Our monthly IT support plan includes watching updates, backups and disk health.

More tips

• How to spot a scam e-mail in 30 seconds
• Is your backup actually working?
• Wi-Fi keeps dropping? Try this first
• What to do if your e-mail or an account gets hacked
• All tips