A few years ago, many people saw remote work as a distant dream. However, remote roles have become commonplace in today’s working environment, especially amongst office workers and government employees.
Because of this, more and more people have had to spend time on their smart devices, particularly their computers. Remote workers and small business owners use their computers for a variety of tasks, some of which include:
- Sending and receiving emails
- Video chatting with co-workers
- Creating and editing documents
- Researching information online
However, after spending some time on your computer, you may have noticed that it feels sluggish. Working on a slow computer can be quite frustrating, especially if you have strict deadlines that you need to meet.
If you’re looking for quick and easy ways to optimize your computer, be sure to make use of the following recommendations.
Download Antivirus Software
Malicious software (commonly referred to as malware) is a dangerous form of software that can damage your device. Accidentally exposing your work computer to malware can infect your programs, causing them to perform sluggishly. This makes it nearly impossible for remote employees to get their work done efficiently.
Furthermore, downloading malware doesn’t just harm your device; it can also jeopardize your employer. If you deal with sensitive information or financial data, cyber-attackers can use specific types of malware, such as spyware or keyloggers, to intercept your work-related data.
This puts a wide variety of parties at risk, ranging from your co-workers to clientele.
If you want to protect your device from malware, you should consider downloading the best antivirus software on the market.
Antivirus and security go hand-in-hand, especially if you’re a remote worker; modern antivirus software has the ability to track down the smallest signs of malware that can compromise your device or data.
This means that you can spend less time worrying about your cybersecurity and more time doing what you do best.
Clean Your Hard Drive
The hard drive is an essential part of your computer, as it allows your device to store software and perform necessary functions.
When your computer’s hard drive nears maximum storage capacity (generally around 95 percent), it begins to perform slowly. This can turn a simple task, like starting up a program, into a lengthy ordeal.
To deal with this issue, you can free up space on your hard drive by removing any unnecessary programs or documents from your device. Doing this will alleviate pressure from your hard drive and allow it to perform efficiently.
Delete Old Browser Add-Ons
It’s not uncommon for remote workers to use several browser add-ons throughout the workday. These add-ons help remote workers with several tasks, ranging from editing documents to blocking annoying advertisements.
However, it’s important to remember that these add-ons consume a large amount of processing power. This means that your device has less processing power to disperse amongst other programs.
Thankfully, this is an easy fix; go through your add-ons and delete the extensions you’re no longer using.
Organize Your Desktop
Nothing is worse than having a cluttered desktop. Keeping your desktop clean and organized can help you quickly find important documents or programs. This can make the workday feel less hectic and more streamlined.
Furthermore, a well-maintained desktop is much more visually appealing, which will make you want to spend more time on your device.
While you’re organizing your desktop, you may want to switch up your wallpaper. This can refresh your desktop and give it some flair.
If you don’t know how to change the wallpaper on your device, feel free to check out this guide.
Increase Your Battery Life
Over time, laptop batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. This is a natural occurrence that can’t be avoided. However, if your relatively new laptop is continuously dying, you may have a premature battery issue.
Premature battery issues may not be an enormous problem for casual users; however, they can be quite troublesome for remote workers who spend most of their workday on their computers.
Remote workers need to have laptops with a reliable and lengthy battery life. Having a reliable battery will ensure that their device stays alive during meetings and video chats.
There are several things that can cause a premature battery issue, some of which include:
- Keeping your laptop plugged in for too long
- Letting your laptop overheat
- Hardware malfunction or error
If you want to keep your battery in good shape, you may want to make use of the following suggestions:
- Using power-saving features (Battery Saver for Windows and Energy Saver for Mac)
- Always use the charger that came with the laptop
- Keep your device on a stand or support (to prevent overheating)
Although it may sound like a time-consuming challenge, optimizing your work computer is a simple and important task that every remote worker should make time for.
Executive standing in his office -DepositPhotos
