Computer Operating System and Program Maintenance
Recommendations
- Update and use your malware scan software.
- Update and use your antivirus software regularly.
- Update Windows Regularly using Windows Update
- Get a surge protector – Power surges destroy electronic equipment
- Stop unnecessary programs from starting automatically at boot time
- Back up your data – Google Drive with UNLIMITED storage is included with your student email account. Learn More About Google Drive.
- Download programs and apps from reputable sites
- Delete useless files and unused programs – There are several free programs available to get rid of unnecessary files and programs. Our favorite is:
- Cleaner – This program deletes most leftover internet files and also many temporary system files
Note: Although we use this program regularly at the helpdesk and on our personal computers, we are not responsible for any damage that may happen to your machine if you choose to use it. Occasionally, machines which are severely infested with viruses and/or spyware may be damaged by using this product.
- Cleaner – This program deletes most leftover internet files and also many temporary system files
Restoring your computer
- Computers can be reformatted and/or restored back to the original condition.
- This is a drastic measure and takes some planning, but sometimes this is your best option.
- Restoring generally wipes everything off of the hard drive. You must backup files you wish to save to an external hard drive or cloud storage before starting the restore process.
- The restore will take some time. It usually takes several hours.
- We cannot restore student computers at the helpdesk – but we can help you through the process. We welcome you to call and make an appointment to bring your computer to the helpdesk. We will help you get started and answer any questions you have during the process.
Maintenance
Information Technology Services reserves the right to perform routine network and server maintenance and updates on Sunday mornings from 6 a.m. through 1 p.m. Access to university servers and systems may be down for brief periods during this time.
Contact the Help Desk