How Often Should You Service Your Computer?

Most people only think about their computer when something goes wrong. But a little preventative maintenance goes a long way toward preventing those problems in the first place.

Monthly tasks (5 minutes)

• Run Windows Update and install any pending updates
• Empty the Recycle Bin
• Run a full Windows Defender scan
• Check that your backup is running (if you use one)

Every 3 months (15 minutes)

• Run Disk Cleanup and clean system files
• Review installed programmes and remove anything unused
• Check startup programmes and disable unnecessary ones
• Update any software not set to auto-update

Every 6 months (30 minutes)

• Use compressed air to blow out the laptop vents
• Check battery health and note any degradation
• Review cloud backup and ensure important new files are included
• Check hard drive health using CrystalDiskInfo (free)

Annually — professional service

A professional service from Darren includes physical internal cleaning (not just vents), thermal paste replacement if needed, comprehensive health checks on all components, and software optimisation. This is the equivalent of a car service — preventative rather than reactive.