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JF-Expert Member
- Sep 29, 2010
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Mobile and compact, the laptop has many advantages if you want to use a computer whenever and wherever it suits you. It also has disadvantages if you do not take care of it properly. Protecting a laptop and its contents from damage and loss involves following some basic but essential advice.
Keep It Ventilated
To avoid overheating, keep the laptop well ventilated. A laptop has vents on the bottom, so keep it on a flat, hard surface like a desk or table when in use. Soft surfaces such as mattresses, pillows and even --- ironically --- laps can obstruct the airflow and cause it to overheat quickly.
Shut When Not in Use
Close the lid on your laptop when not in use, and shut down the system altogether if not using it for a prolonged period. This saves energy and prevents heat and overuse damaging the computer. Like every machine, parts wear down and break eventually, so giving it a rest when you can prolongs its life.
Buy a Suitable Bag
A suitable laptop bag should have ample padding to protect the computer when on the move. Make it generic, with no computer-related logos or identifying features on the outside, as this will make it harder for potential thieves to spot.
Keep Food and Drink at a Distance
As all the features of a laptop lie close together, a liquid spill can damage several parts at the same time. Resist the temptation to eat and drink near your laptop. Crumbs can get between the keys and enter the main machinery, and a clumsy slip with a cup of coffee can bring your laptop's life to an unexpected end.
Check Cables Regularly
Because you move around a lot with a laptop, power cables can easily become frayed, posing an electrical safety hazard. Check regularly, and replace or repair with electrical tape when needed.
Keep It in Sight
When walking around, keep your laptop with you at all times, attached firmly with a shoulder strap. When traveling in unfamiliar places, resist the temptation to put it down, especially in busy locations, such as airports and bus stations. Thieves may be waiting for just such an opportunity.
Back up Data
If you store important data on your laptop, keep a backup of your hard drive contents. Online backup services include Dropbox.com, ElephantDrive.com and Mozy.com. Alternatively, save to an external hard drive. If you do not save important documents, you lose them permanently if you lose your laptop to theft or damage. Corey Sandler, author of "Laptops All-in-One for Dummies," advises laptop users to "always assume that the next time you attempt to turn on your computer it will refuse to respond."
Run Anti-Virus Software
Download anti-virus software from a site such as McAfee.com, Symantec.com or Sophos.com. Keep it switched on constantly to protect the hard drive from viruses and other threats, such as malware. Most paid anti-virus software comes with a firewall, which blocks unauthorized communications to and from your laptop.
Salute: Laptop Safety Tips
Keep It Ventilated
To avoid overheating, keep the laptop well ventilated. A laptop has vents on the bottom, so keep it on a flat, hard surface like a desk or table when in use. Soft surfaces such as mattresses, pillows and even --- ironically --- laps can obstruct the airflow and cause it to overheat quickly.
Shut When Not in Use
Close the lid on your laptop when not in use, and shut down the system altogether if not using it for a prolonged period. This saves energy and prevents heat and overuse damaging the computer. Like every machine, parts wear down and break eventually, so giving it a rest when you can prolongs its life.
Buy a Suitable Bag
A suitable laptop bag should have ample padding to protect the computer when on the move. Make it generic, with no computer-related logos or identifying features on the outside, as this will make it harder for potential thieves to spot.
Keep Food and Drink at a Distance
As all the features of a laptop lie close together, a liquid spill can damage several parts at the same time. Resist the temptation to eat and drink near your laptop. Crumbs can get between the keys and enter the main machinery, and a clumsy slip with a cup of coffee can bring your laptop's life to an unexpected end.
Check Cables Regularly
Because you move around a lot with a laptop, power cables can easily become frayed, posing an electrical safety hazard. Check regularly, and replace or repair with electrical tape when needed.
Keep It in Sight
When walking around, keep your laptop with you at all times, attached firmly with a shoulder strap. When traveling in unfamiliar places, resist the temptation to put it down, especially in busy locations, such as airports and bus stations. Thieves may be waiting for just such an opportunity.
Back up Data
If you store important data on your laptop, keep a backup of your hard drive contents. Online backup services include Dropbox.com, ElephantDrive.com and Mozy.com. Alternatively, save to an external hard drive. If you do not save important documents, you lose them permanently if you lose your laptop to theft or damage. Corey Sandler, author of "Laptops All-in-One for Dummies," advises laptop users to "always assume that the next time you attempt to turn on your computer it will refuse to respond."
Run Anti-Virus Software
Download anti-virus software from a site such as McAfee.com, Symantec.com or Sophos.com. Keep it switched on constantly to protect the hard drive from viruses and other threats, such as malware. Most paid anti-virus software comes with a firewall, which blocks unauthorized communications to and from your laptop.
Salute: Laptop Safety Tips
