Spring seems to have finally sprung here in Vermont. Some might even say that the early days of summer have also begun! In the last few weeks we have seen a rise in temperatures and dry weather, making some of us hold out on admitting it’s time to consider pulling out our clunky window air conditioners and window fans. Many gardens are starting to show regrowth of flowers and it never ceases to amaze me how it seem overnight our trees go from ugly brown sticks to vibrant greens of all shades. These warm spring temperatures have already made me forget about winter and mud season as I enjoy warm spring evenings outside with the family after work. 

When spring rolls around many of us are focused on cleaning up our yards, homes, and even our cars. But have you thought about what you might need to do to clean up your computer? There are a lot of quick and simply things you can do to your computer to make sure it’s running at peak efficiency and these are steps you can easily do yourself. We talk about data back up a lot, but it’s one of the best forms of preventative care you can do for you machine. So if you don’t already have a backup drive for Time Machine we recommend purchasing one. Perhaps you use Time Machine but haven’t backed up recently? Now is the perfect time!

With a current backup of your machine now complete, you can help your machine run a little faster by emptying your Trash as well as reducing the number of files being stored on your Desktop. We all do it, keep too much on your Desktop that is! It’s convenient (the files are all right there, no digging right?) The problem is that storing all these files slows your computer down because your computer needs to use more memory to render the preview icons on the Desktop.

I also recommend looking to see what items you have selected as Login Items. Have your noticed when your start up your computer, you’re always waiting for one program like iTunes or Microsoft Office to open? This is because often times, without realizing it, you have programs set to launch upon startup. This can be a huge time saver for frequently utilized programs, but also another reason your machine might be slowing down. By simply going into System Preferences, then choosing Accounts and lastly Login Items you can check to see if you happen to have any programs set to auto launch. Remove any unnecessary programs by clicking on them and hitting the minus button.

Lastly, software updates. Ensuring that your software is as up to date as possible can also go a long way towards keeping your computer at its peak performance! 

Thank you for reading!
Emily Dolloff
emily@smalldog.com