Improve Performance

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Backup your computer

  • Before doing anything major to your computer, backup your files — you could lose everything.

Turn the computer off regularly

  • At least once a week, to give your computer a break
  • Closing the lid isn’t sufficient; that only puts it to sleep
    • Apple – Shut Down to turn off completely

Getting Rid of Junk

Applications

  • More apps means more to run, slowing down the computer
  • Quit any apps that you aren’t using (save first)
    • The ‘x’ closes the current window, not the app.
    • Open apps on the dock are indicated by a black dot underneath
  • Keep control of browser tabs
  • Avoid unnecessary browser extensions
  • Organize desktop items into folders

Files

  • Files take up memory
    • Leftover memory is used to run programs
  • Trash obsolete files
    • Drag to the trash can (end of dock)
    • Remember to empty trash, and reboot, to reclaim the space
    • If you’re worried, you can store old files in backup.
  • Deciding what to get rid of
  • Scan for viruses or spyware
    • Be wary of downloads and suspicious files/emails
    • To scan, use Sophos Home or Malware Bytes
    • Only update from the App Store
      • You can also upgrade the MacOS (see tech office)
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