The following are often called “maintenance” but also fall under the heading of “safety”:
- Make sure you have a good commercial antivirus is installed. Consumers and small businesses are susceptible to viruses, malware and ransomware is on the rise! Make sure your malware is both updating and regularly scanning!
- Make sure you back-up your documents (files like Word, Excel, and jpgs) to an external hard drive or through a reputable cloud back-up service (and not to Dropbox, OneFile, Google Drive, etc. – these are “file share” programs.”) Backup software automatically backs up on a schedule anything that changes and allows version recovery.
- Keep beverages away from your computer. I’m here to tell you that Pepsi will ruin your laptops keyboard…
- Manage the cords – make sure you cannot trip over them or move them with your feet. And make sure your computer and equipment are safely placed on the desktop. Always carry with two hands!
- Make sure you are plugged into a surge protector and replace it every 3 years. You cannot tell when they have lost their ability to protect.
- Learn how to create “standard” account logins rather than administrator logins as malware cannot easily get control of your operating system.
- Do not turn off the “firewall” that comes with your operating system or antivirus! Check periodically that one (and usually only one) is enabled.
If any of this feels like its out of your wheelhouse or you would like training, call or text me – Sharon at 773-769-7435, sharon.sherman@seriouspursuits.com You’ll get good care.
