I am going to delv into something I dont usually talk about, but since I have been around computers for quite sometime even working in tech support, I figure it is osmehting that could help anyone who uses a computer to help it last a bit longer.

We all know that the number one threat to computers is hackers sending viruses or hacking a favorite web site and installing malicous viruses or trojans unto your computer wrealking havoci on it, but there are some other culprits that also wreaks havvoic on your computer.

So lets dig in.

First make sure your comptuer is connected to a surge protector, even if your house has a sure protector connected to the circut breaker box, you should still use it as a backup.  One thing I do is to simply unplug my computer at night from the power source including the internet connection.  IF any storms start up in the night and hit my office, I dont have to worry about the computers beause they cannot be harmed since they are not plugged in.

Another improtant way of taking care of your computer and making it last longer is to keep the heat down.  All computers have cooling fans to help cool the processors, but if you have the CPU inside a computer desk cabinate, the fan is sucking in warm air and not cooling your porcessor down as much as it should be.

You can cut the back out of the cabinat so that cooler air can come in and help the the processor from getting to hot.  If it does overheat, your computer will strain and will slow down.  Likewise, it will will decresase the life span of your computer. If at all possible, keep your house or office cool where you are using your computers and it will also improve the lifespan and processing speed of your computer(s).

Finally, keep them clean.  Do not put liqids on the cpu I know that sounds like common sense, but as a tech support person, I have heard people spilling all kinds of things on and in their CPU and keyboards that have fried their machines and put them atr risk of getting a real nasty shock.

You should also remember to keep the dust out of your computer. I try to dust the interior of my computer at least once every six months. If you are unsure about doing this yourself, you can always get a local computer shop to do this for you.

First, I unplug the power cord. I remove the cover and use a small vacuum to clean out the dust from inside.  If you have never done this before, be careful not to touch any of the components with the vacuum or your hands. Static electricity can damage the sensitive components and the vacuum can damage them so be cautious.

Vacuum around the power supply but DO NOT TOUCH IT.  Even unplugged it can kill you because it stores electricity.

The cooling fan vent and the cooling fan itself gets the most dust.  Use a quetip and hold the blad with a second quetip as you clean them.  Celan each and every blad, then vaccum up the dust.

Making this a routine can help your computer last longer and run better.  I have one machine, that While it is slow compared to the newer machines still runs after ten years and has all of its original parts.