Let’s Get Cleaning: A Guide to Spring Cleaning Digital Devices
The snow is melting, and the flowers are blooming. Spring is officially underway, which means it’s time to get your spring cleaning done. We’re not talking about dusting the floors or cleaning those hinges. It’s time to clean up those devices.
We often forget our devices need maintenance just as much as our homes. Leaving your devices cluttered and unchecked poses a high risk for hacking and security breaches.
So, don’t let the dust collect on those files. Here are some tips to get you cleaned up.
Uninstall Apps
Look through your applications and software; outdated games or apps you haven’t used in years are cluttering your system. Uninstalling apps and software gives you more space and memory.
Unsubscribe from Newsletters and Alerts
Go through your emails and unsubscribe from any alerts or newsletters you no longer need. Unsubscribing helps keep your emails more relevant so that you can see essential emails more easily.
Delete or Update Passwords
Are you using the same password you had in high school? It might be time for an upgrade.
Experts recommend changing your passwords periodically to reduce risk. A unique passphrase or a word unique to you with numbers and special characters can be an added form of protection.
For organization and smooth processing, use a password manager to keep track of your passwords. Learn more about securing log-in credentials from MS-ISAC.
Review Your Contact List
If you do not remember the majority of the names in your contact list, it might be a good time to remove some contacts.
Decluttering your contacts list makes it easier to look for essential numbers.
Declutter Your Files and Photos
It’s time to get rid of those overflow folders, any outdated photos, and those untitled documents you forgot about.
Having an album of photos on your device is nice, but it could be causing clutter and flooding your storage. Try going through each folder to scan for any files or pictures that you deem no longer necessary.
Clear your Cache Data
Checking and clearing the cache is a practice that continually gets overlooked or forgotten. Clearing cached data obtained from apps and sites can improve your device’s speed.
Backup Important Data
To ensure the photos and files you absolutely can’t part with are safe, you need to back up your data.
Backing up data to an external hard drive or the cloud ensures your files are secure and prevent data loss. It is best to do a routine backup just in case of unexpected device failure.
Whether your device is damaged or stolen, your memories and data will be secure.
Update Software
No one wants an outdated or lagging system. Regularly checking for software updates for your devices and applications ensures optimal performance and security.
Clean More Than the Inside of Your Devices
If the sound on your phone is always muffled when you listen to music or talk, your speakers are probably collecting dust; literally.
While it is a good practice to declutter your devices digitally, let’s not forget the physical maintenance that’s needed.
Untangle your cables, wipe down your screens, wipe down your keyboards, and check for cracks or other potential damage. Devices need to look good internally and externally.
Following these squeaky-clean tips helps keep your devices and data clean, keeping them in top condition and providing a smooth, efficient user experience. Happy cleaning!
While you’re cleaning, read how to take control of your data through data privacy!