Not everyone can afford to replace, update or upgrade their computer regularly while others might like to get as much life out of what they have before splurging on something new. Whatever your reasons for having an old PC, you will probably want it to last as long as possible before it inevitably dies one day.
We have a few pointers that you might want to follow if you want your PC to have a long and fulfilled lifespan.
Don’t Install Too Much Software
Think of your computer a bit like the junk drawer in your kitchen. Over the years of installing, using and deleting software, the drawer gets filled up with quite a bit of useless junk. This not only takes up storage you could be using for something that you use regularly while also using up a lot of your system resources such as processor and Ram (even when not using the software).
Always remove any software that you do not use. Do not install software just in case you need it or because you want it – install it because you are going to use it often. If not, just install it when you do plan to use it.
Have a Backup Plan
If you rely on your computer for work or simply do not have money saved up for when your computer dies, have another backup plan that you can use. You can pick up netbooks these days that while not the best in specs are quite cheap. Another option is to use a USB PC that can be plugged into your existing PC. This only works if your current PC will not boot up but still powers on.
The Xtra PC is one example of this as you can see from various Xtra PC reviews. This is a PC on a USB stick that can be plugged into your PC to give you an operating system that makes use of the current specs of your computer.
Look After Your Hardware
Generally, if any of your major hardware gives up the ghost, your PC will not work at all. A processor, hard drive, motherboard or any RAM that gives up will not allow your PC to function. While these can be replaced or upgraded, this will cost you money. Instead, take good care of the hardware that you do have so that it has less chance of failing.
Always keep your computer clean and free of dust. If dust starts to clog up the vents or settle on the inside of your PC, it can lead to your components heating up. Overheating is not good for any electrical components. Keep your PC clean and open it up from time to time and use some compressed air to blow away any dust that is building up.
Summary
All computers will die eventually but you will be surprised at just how many years one that is well looked-after can last. If you can get 10-years out of your PC you have done very well and any more than that can only be seen as an exceptional lifespan – especially if regularly used. Just make sure that you have a backup such as a USB PC for when that lifespan finally runs out.
