Computer Maintenance & Security Checklist
Some simple routine maintenance can help ensure that your computers will continue to operate smoothly and reliably.
Following are some recommended guidelines for regular, ongoing maintenance procedures.
Contact STLS IT Staff with any further questions.
GENERAL Maintenance & Security Guidelines
Computer
Protect against power surges or loss.
Register your software products or sign up to receive product alerts, patches and updates.
Schedule tasks to run automatically when possible.
Educate yourself on basic computer maintenance and security issues. Use the Webopedia to look up terms you don't understand.
E-mail
Never open e-mail from an unknown source.
Do not respond to unsolicited e-mail.
Always include a relevant subject line on e-mail that you send out.
Set-up your e-mail to Auto-Archive older mail messages.
Internet
Be aware of the potential security risks associated with Internet activity. Be informed about the personal information you provide online as well as what information is being collected about you "behind the scenes".
Security
Protect yourself against computer viruses with anti-virus software.
Sign up for free Microsoft Windows Critical Update Notifications.
DAILY Maintenance & Security Tasks
Security
Verify that your virus definitions are up-to-date, if conditions warrant.
WEEKLY Maintenance & Security Tasks
Computer
Run "ScanDisk" to check hard drive for errors
Run "Defrag" to defragment your files.
Run "Disk Cleanup" to delete unneeded files.
Clean out files from your temporary files directory.
Back up your files and store them away from your computer.
Empty your Recycle bin.
E-mail
Delete the "clutter" from your Inbox.
Empty your Deleted Items folder, or set it up to empty automatically.
Internet
Delete your temporary Internet files & clear your Internet history.
Delete your cookies.
Security
Update virus definitions.
Run a full anti-virus system scan.
MONTHLY Maintenance & Security Tasks
Computer
Check for the latest Service Packs/Updates for Windows, Office, Internet Explorer.
Check for unneeded or unused programs and consider uninstalling them.
QUARTERLY Maintenance & Security Tasks
Computer
Clean your PC.
Clean your keyboard.
Clean your mouse.
Clean up your start-up menu.
Security
Change your system passwords.
ANNUAL Maintenance & Security Tasks
Security
Renew your anti-virus software subscription.
page updated 03/12/2008