by Vinicius Perallis, CEO – Hacker Rangers
The personal computer is inarguably one of the most valuable items in the entrepreneur’s toolbox. It provides access to the platforms where market research, project management, and content creation occur. It also serves as the hub for online sales, financial operations, and client meetings. And when you need to disconnect, it serves up the distractions you need on YouTube, Reddit, or whatever social platform you find most appealing.
Maximizing the performance of your personal computer, however, requires some work. Entrepreneurs and others working remotely who want to get the most out of their personal computers should consider the following tips for security, productivity, and maintenance.
Step 1: Make sure the computer is secure.
Office workers typically have the help of an IT team and an IT budget to ensure their computers are secure. Entrepreneurs usually need to address those needs on their own. While managing security can be challenging with the myriad of other tasks on their plates, you should make it a priority. One breach can cause data loss, business disruption, and financial hardship.
The first step in keeping computers secure is keeping operating systems and software up to date. Developers invest a lot of resources in identifying vulnerabilities in their products to prevent cybercriminals from exploiting them. If they find a flaw, they fix it and issue updates to ensure users remain safe. Install updates as soon as they are available to ensure your systems are as secure as possible.
Antivirus software is also critical for keeping computers secure, especially software that detects and blocks malware. Experts estimate that 350,000 new threats involving malware and other potentially unwanted applications are released every day. The most effective antivirus programs will provide real-time protection and automatic virus definition updates.
Paying close attention to password hygiene is another important step for keeping your computer secure. Protect each account with a strong and unique password and multi-factor authentication whenever possible. You should also set up a regular schedule to check whether your password remains secure and hasn’t been compromised.
Step 2: Protect your computer from mechanical damage.
While a wide range of factors can affect how long a computer lasts, the average lifespan is considered to be somewhere between three and eight years. To see yours hit the high end of that range, you’ll need to take steps to maintain it.
Cleaning your computer regularly is essential for extending its life. Dust, crumbs, and other foreign elements that enter the computer housing can damage internal parts.
Working at remote locations with a laptop — at coffee shops, coworking sites, and elsewhere — is common for entrepreneurs. If that is your routine, invest in a carrying case that protects your computer from damage resulting from a bump or a drop. Using a VPN when connecting to a public network adds an extra layer of security, helping to protect you from cybercriminals.
Preventive maintenance can also help to extend the life of your computer. A specialized technician can run diagnostics that reveal when components are not performing optimally. Replacing a fan or hard drive before it fails can save you a lot of downtime and frustration.
Step 3: Leverage features to optimize productivity.
Today’s computers can do much more than facilitate access to business tools. By leveraging the right applications and features, entrepreneurs can create a digital assistant capable of optimizing their productivity.
Taking advantage of automation tools is one way to leverage your computer for better productivity. These tools can range from email programs that automatically sort incoming messages to online conferencing platforms that automatically transcribe meetings and highlight elements in need of follow-up.
Using your computer’s notification tools is an easy way to improve your productivity. They can remind you that a meeting is coming up (and what you need to do to prepare for it), when an email has gone unanswered, and when a colleague has completed an element of a project and thrown it back to you. Notifications help to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Your computer can also help you find your optimal work rhythm by tracking your productivity and suggesting how to improve it. Several apps monitor the programs you use, how much time you spend on them, and when you accomplish the bulk of your work. These programs can help you see when you are at your best and when you need to take a break.
For most entrepreneurs, the computer plays a critical role in their work. Consequently, it must be kept secure and well-maintained. Investing time to care for your computer will ensure that you optimize not only its performance but also your own.
Vinicius Perallis is an expert in cybersecurity and CEO of Hacker Rangers, a company focused on fostering cybersecurity practices within businesses using gaming techniques. As the visionary behind Hacker Rangers and a passionate enthusiast of gamification, Vinicius has effectively introduced training programs to over 250 companies in Brazil and worldwide.
