I neglected to mention a few other tasks I do to maintain computers:
Open up the computer as much as possible, and then use a can of compressed air to blow out dust, especially around the cooling and venting areas.
Do the same for the keyboard, to blow away the crud. It can help to turn a keyboard upside down and shake vigorously <-- don't do this to a laptop! Do this for at least a minute and you'll be grossed out by what falls out. As my dad said, "But I don't eat at the computer!" Yah, well...
As a final touch, I spray the screen and other flat areas with Multisurface Pledge, and then wipe off with a soft cotton cloth.
Reader J. L. asked which firewall software I employ in computers. I find the Microsoft one sufficient.
He asked also if I use anti-virus on Androids. None, I replied. I rarely install new software, because I have my set of productivity apps and so don't need much in the way of more. (Although I did get stung by a fake version of BBM.) Two more reasons:
- Google is working at cutting down on problem apps
- Androids are isolated from PCs in that Android virii cannot run on PCs or Macs (and vice versa)
At conferences like Autodesk U (which at one time in the past suffered from an infection running through the WiFi), I use a cell phone data plan on my Android to access the Internet, because I get better coverage.
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