Computer Maintenance 101: Keeping Your System Running Smoothly

Course Overview:
This course provides essential knowledge on maintaining a computer’s hardware and software for optimal performance and longevity. You'll learn about routine checks, software updates, troubleshooting, and tips for physical upkeep.

Module 1: Introduction to Computer Maintenance

• Why Computer Maintenance Matters

  • Understanding the impact of regular maintenance on performance and lifespan

  • Key components of computer maintenance: hardware care, software upkeep, and security

• Basic Maintenance Tools

  • Overview of built-in and third-party tools for monitoring performance and cleaning up files

  • Tools like Task Manager, Disk Cleanup, and antivirus software

Module 2: Hardware Maintenance

• Cleaning and Dusting

  • Importance of dust removal for cooling and hardware longevity

  • Safe practices for cleaning keyboards, screens, and internal components

• Hard Drive and Storage Maintenance

  • Checking and maintaining hard drive health (SMART data, defragmentation for HDDs)

  • Regularly organizing and backing up files to avoid clutter and data loss

• Battery and Power Management

  • Tips for prolonging battery life on laptops

  • Power settings for performance or efficiency

Module 3: Software Maintenance

• Operating System (OS) Updates

  • Importance of keeping the OS updated for security and performance

  • Scheduling updates and managing reboots

• Software and Driver Updates

  • Keeping applications, drivers, and firmware current to avoid compatibility and security issues

  • Managing updates through Windows Update or Mac Software Update

• Cleaning Up Software and Files

  • Uninstalling unnecessary programs and managing startup applications

  • Using Disk Cleanup (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac) to free up space

Module 4: System Performance Optimization

• Managing Startup and Background Programs

  • Identifying and disabling unneeded startup programs

  • Monitoring background processes for performance management

• Disk Optimization

  • Defragmenting and optimizing HDDs, using SSD-specific maintenance tools

  • Clearing temporary files, cache, and system logs

• Memory and CPU Management

  • Monitoring CPU and RAM usage, identifying resource-heavy applications

  • Managing browser tabs and extensions for a smoother browsing experience

Module 5: Security and Backup

• Antivirus and Malware Protection

  • Installing and regularly updating antivirus software

  • Running regular scans and understanding different types of malware

• Data Backup

  • Importance of backing up data and setting up regular backups

  • Using external drives, cloud storage, or built-in backup solutions like Windows Backup and Time Machine

• Protecting Personal Information

  • Setting up firewalls, managing passwords, and securing Wi-Fi networks

  • Practicing safe browsing and recognizing phishing scams

Module 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Basic Troubleshooting Steps

  • Restarting, updating, and checking hardware connections

  • Using diagnostic tools for error checking (Event Viewer, System Information)

• Fixing Slow Performance

  • Identifying reasons for slowdown (insufficient RAM, too many startup programs)

  • Steps to boost speed, including cleaning files, closing apps, and checking hardware

• Handling Hardware Issues

  • Troubleshooting common problems with peripherals like printers, monitors, and drives

  • Knowing when to replace hardware components (battery, hard drive, etc.)

Module 7: Practical Exercises and Final Assessment

• Hands-On Maintenance Practice

  • Step-by-step exercises on file cleanup, OS updates, and hardware cleaning

  • Running diagnostic tests and performing basic troubleshooting

• Final Assessment

  • Perform a full maintenance cycle on a computer, documenting each step

  • Checklist for ongoing monthly and annual maintenance