Did you know your home computer can last for years with routine maintenance? Like a car, with proper care computers can be kept in great condition. Follow these tips to get the most value from your computer.

Anti-Virus :
Many people do not realize that having anti-virus software installed is not enough to keep your computer protected. Think of your anti-virus definitions as a current list of viruses that can’t infect your computer. Just like you get flu vaccines each year, the definitions your anti-virus software uses to protect you must be up-to-date. Each day, hackers write new viruses. If you don't add those new viruses to the list, then they can infect your computer.

Most anti-virus software prompts you to update. Don't ignore it. Always let your anti-virus protection update. Letting your subscription or updates lapse leaves your computer more open to a virus attack.

Leave Room :
Keep enough free space on your hard drive. Your computer uses a part of the hard drive to think. Without enough thinking room, your computer may run slow. We all like to fill our hard drives with pictures and music, but leave a good amount free
for your computer to work efficiently. It will thank you!

Keep it Clean :
Sometimes, we forget how amazing technology is when we live with it every day. Computers are built tougher than ever, but they are still filled with fragile pieces. Keeping a computer on the floor invites dust, hair, and pet dander to get sucked into the fan. The delicate parts of your computer can be filled with these particles and seriously damage the internal workings of the machine. In some cases, enough hair can actually create a fire hazard.

More Advice :
If you are looking for more advice on how to get the most from your computer, check out Tallahassee Tech Guy Computer Tips and free online lessons.