7 practical tips to keep your laptop and computer in top shape

From decluttering storage to managing startup apps, here’s how to keep your device running like new for years. (Image: Pexels)

Your laptop or desktop is more than just a machine; it’s your workspace, entertainment hub, and in many cases, your lifeline to the world. But over time, even the fastest systems can start to feel sluggish. The good news is with a few simple habits, you can keep your device running smoothly for years without constantly upgrading to the latest model.

1. Keep Your Storage Organised: A cluttered hard drive can slow your system, even if you have plenty of free space left. Make it a habit to delete files you don’t need, uninstall programs you never use, and empty your recycle bin regularly. Consider moving large photos, videos, and backups to an external hard drive or cloud storage. Not only will this free up space, but it will also help your computer run more efficiently.

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2. Manage Your Startup Programs:  Many apps automatically set themselves to run every time you start your computer, which can dramatically increase boot time. On Windows, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab, and disable unnecessary programs. For Mac users, head to System Preferences → Users & Groups → Login Items and remove anything non-essential. This simple step can make your system feel instantly faster.

3. Keep It Cool and Dust-Free: Overheating is one of the fastest ways to damage your computer’s performance. Make sure your laptop or desktop has proper ventilation and avoid using it on soft surfaces like beds or cushions, which block airflow. Every few months, give your device a careful dusting, especially the vents and fans, using a can of compressed air. If you’ve had your computer for several years, consider having the thermal paste reapplied by a technician to keep heat under control.

4. Update Regularly: It’s easy to hit “Remind me later” on updates, but those updates often contain important performance improvements and security fixes. Keep your operating system, drivers, and key applications up to date. This ensures your device runs more efficiently and is better protected from security threats.

5. Use Reliable Security Software: A sluggish computer can sometimes be a sign of malware or adware running in the background. Install trusted antivirus software and run regular scans. Avoid downloading files from unknown sources, and be mindful of browser extensions, too many can slow down your system.

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6. Restart Often: It might sound basic, but restarting your computer can work wonders. It clears temporary files, refreshes system memory, and stops stuck processes from hogging resources. If you keep your computer running for days or weeks at a time, try shutting it down or restarting at least once a week.

7. Keep Your Battery Healthy: For laptops, avoid keeping them plugged in at 100% all the time. Let the battery discharge to around 40–50% before plugging it back in, and try not to let it drop to zero often, this helps prolong battery life and efficiency.