MCC Daily Tribune
National Clean Up Your Computer Month
National Clean Up Your Computer Month, observed annually in January, reminds us of all that our computers do a lot for us, and they deserve a little T.L.C. too. After all, like any other machine, ignoring your computer can come at a large cost — literally and figuratively. That’s probably why the founders of this day, whoever they are, slotted an entire month to clean up our computers — these devices are too important to us.
NATIONAL CLEAN UP YOUR COMPUTER MONTH ACTIVITIES
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Clean up the computer
Organize your desktop, arrange your files and store them safely, run a virus check, and more. Check (and trashing) old stuff from your computers also helps free up space, which in turn helps computers run a little faster.
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Clean up your computer's insides
Don't forget to dust off the insides of your computer too. The little nooks and crannies are a haven for dust to settle in, which can cause big problems for your computer if it is left to settle.
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Encourage others to clean their computers
Work buddies, out-of-office buddies, family — get everyone involved in National Clean Up Your Computer Month, for the betterment of their devices.
5 SIMPLE WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER AND DATA
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Use a can of compressed air
Gently blow the dust off your computer case and even the keyboard and screen; a cotton swab can be used to wipe off the remaining dust.
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Safeguard against power surges
Did you know you can buy a special surge protector to protect against fluctuations of power?
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Check out special tools
All big-name computers have special 'clean up' tools to wipe out unwanted junk from your systems; these are usually free and preloaded onto your devices too.
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Update everything
Check online for the latest updates — which are often about plugging security issues — and download them to keep your computers safe from threats.
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Get professional help
Instead of trying to protect the computer yourself, how about investing in a good antivirus program that automatically protects your computer and your data from harm?
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL CLEAN UP YOUR COMPUTER MONTH
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It is way more productive
Which is easier to navigate — a computer with a messy desktop and files, or one that has everything organized just the way you like it?
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Cleaning computers is a healthy habit
Physical benefits include not succumbing to dust allergies or any other illness. Social benefits include a safer, faster, and happier experience when using your clean computer.
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This month benefits the environment too
The more we maintain our devices, the less we'd need to service or replace them. And so, we are emitting less electronic waste into the planet.
Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
01/18/2023