Maintaining a laptop in good condition may not be as easy as some might think. If you compare laptops to desktop computers, the latter are static and are less likely to be affected by external hazards, especially if the case is in a specifically designed table that adds an extra bit of protection.
Meanwhile, we usually do not bother investing in protecting a laptop. At the very best, some people get a protective laptop case. While the investment in the accessory is a good choice, it might not be enough.
It is not just exterior hazards that pose a threat to your laptop’s well-being. No, there are more threats than you can expect, and unless you know how to deal with them, the odds are that something might happen to the laptop. Let’s take a look at what might damage your laptop and how to deal with these risks.
Hazard #1 – Lifting the Laptop Improperly
This one may seem quite obvious, but some people fail to understand the importance of lifting your laptop properly. It is great if the computer is sturdy, but some models are not like that, and they can fall apart if you are not careful.
It may not seem like much, but make sure that you lift and carry the laptop properly. Also, if someone else decides to pick the laptop, pay attention and stop them if they decide to handle it improperly.
Hazard #2 – Exposing the Laptop to Elements
You may feel like spending some time outside and using the charged laptop under a tree to watch a movie or listen to some music. However, if you are going outside, and it is sunny, keep in mind that exposing the laptop’s screen to Sun may damage it, especially if you leave the laptop like that for too long.
Ideally, you should look for a shade. Not only will it keep the laptop’s screen away from the UV, but you can also enjoy a cool shade while spending the day outside.
Hazard #3 – Installing Threatening Software
Threatening software is another potential hazard to consider. You may find an application on a third-party source rather than the official website and decide to download that because it is cheaper or even free. Saving some money and risking the computer’s well-being is not worth it. In some instances, even your antivirus software may not be enough to prevent cybersecurity threats.
Once there are viruses on the laptop, you will notice how much worse it performs. Random crashes and freezes are a couple of examples of potential problems. Some malware also eats the drive’s space, meaning that you may find it difficult to manage file storage on your laptop.
Other than investing in reliable antivirus software, be smarter about what you download online. If a link seems questionable, do not risk it and avoid files that might hurt your computer.
Hazard #4 – Eating and Drinking Next to the Laptop
Eating and drinking in front of a computer’s screen are quite common. Some people cannot enjoy their food unless they get to watch a movie or a TV show. And it just so happens that one can consume media on a laptop.
As a rule of thumb, you should avoid eating or drinking next to a laptop. The odds of spilling a drink on a keyboard or dropping food are relatively low, but that still might happen. Remember that cleaning liquids and food particles are a bother, not to mention that they might damage the laptop’s hardware.
Hazard #5 – Using Cheap Accessories
You may want to purchase a cheap pair of earplugs or a mouse for a laptop to get a more enjoyable gaming experience. However, plugging cheap accessories might lead to more bad than good.
For example, if something happens to your laptop’s charger, you may look to purchase a second-hand charger to save money. Your choice could turn out to be quite bad because cheap accessories and peripherals often lack safety. As they say, a cheap person pays twice, so do not bother with accessories that will likely jeopardize your laptop.
Hazard #6 – Blocking Ventilation
To keep the laptop cool, avoid blocking ventilation. If you live in a poorly ventilated room, get an AC, especially when it is hot. Otherwise, it will not take too long before the laptop starts overheating.
Of course, it is also worth mentioning the dust that accumulates inside. If you do not remove it regularly, it will put a strain on the internal fans and might even damage the internal hardware.
Lastly, if you have some money to spare, invest in a cooling pad. This accessory costs somewhere between 30 to 50 dollars, which is not a lot when you consider how much it provides.
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