Monday, February 12, is National Clean Out Your Computer Day. I know, you likely did not need to be reminded that the second Monday in February is already here and that means it is time to spend a few hours deleting unnecessary files and backing up your systems.
Of course, the first thing that should be noted is that the holiday is not just about cleaning your software and files. You should also use this as an opportunity to clean you monitor screen, the crumbs from in between the keys on your keyboard, and any dust around your desk and machines.
When you get all of that cleaned up and move on to your software, try and check off each of these items:
- Make sure all of the software you use is up to date. Out-of-date software is a likely target for malware and viruses.
- Back up your files. Whatever method you decide works best for you, back up your files. Imagine a scenario where you did not have access to a particular file. If that scenario induces a panic attack, then that particular file should be backed up somewhere else, just in case.
- Organize your files. Does your computer desktop have a million icons on it and nobody knows where to find anything but you? That’s a problem. Make sure that someone would be able to step in and find whatever is needed if you accidentally got hit by a bus on the way to work tomorrow.
- Defragmenting your hard disk. This will help free up space and help your computer run faster.
- Clean up your email inbox.
- Apply the same steps to your smartphone and tablets.
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