Self Help Tips for Michigan Computer Users

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• Reboot Your Machine.
  Over half of the support issues that Vision receives calls on can be solved by rebooting the computer.
• Update Your Software.
  Software Updates don’t just solve security problems, they can oftentimes also improve performance and fix software bugs. Make sure to regularly visit the websites of your favorite software vendors to make sure that you have the latest patches for the software you use most often. For Windows and Office, be sure to check Windows Update and Office Update.
• Keep Your Equipment Clean.
  Dirt and dust buildup on your computer’s fans can reduce your computer’s ability to keep cool, resulting in hardware failures. Be sure to clean these areas out with compressed air on a regular basis to help avoid costly repairs.
• Check Your Connections.
  If you’ve suddenly lost the use of your keyboard, the monitor stopped working, or you can't see your iPod in iTunes, double check all of your connections. The best way to do this is shut the machine down, unplug each of your devices, and reconnect each cable to make sure you have a solid connection.
• Backup Your Data.
  Have a solid plan for regular backup of critical data. Depending on how irreplaceable your pictures or other sentimental data are, consultation with a qualified technician may be needed to make sure you have a sufficient plan to safeguard these items from not only viruses, but household disasters such as fires and floods.