Think of a computer system like a car that requires regular maintenance. If you don’t service your vehicle,  problems ensue. The same principle applies to your IT infrastructure. Here are six tips for monitoring the health of your computer systems.

1. Use Diagnostic Tools

These are computer programs that provide insights into the current status of your computer systems. There’s the de facto software that’s pre-loaded onto your computer (think Windows Memory Diagnostic or Apple Diagnostics) and hundreds of third-party tools that generate additional insights into CPU, RAM, and other computer performance-related acronyms.  With diagnostics tools, you get to glimpse “under the hood” of your computer system and learn what’s causing that persistent error message or blank start-up screen. Be careful when performing minor assessments on your technology, as there could be underlying issues you would want to talk to a managed service provider about to avoid greater repercussions.

2. Run a Security Scan

Any decent antivirus software should detect most system threats, such as malware, adware, and other malicious programs — but these tools aren’t 100% infallible, so it’s a good idea to run a security scan manually from time to time. Depending on your system, a scan could take a few hours, so factor this downtime into your busy schedule. 

3. Carry Out an Internet Speed Test

If you’re struggling to connect to the web or your favorite pages are loading slowly, there are two probable culprits: your Wi-Fi router or your computer system. Rule out the former by reviewing your broadband speeds for free on a website like Speedcheck or Broadband Now.

4. Check Your Battery

Your battery is a critical cog in your computer system, so every few months, check that it’s working correctly.  If you’re a Windows user:
  1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard and the “X” key or right-click on the Start menu and click Command Prompt.
  2. Type the command: powercfg/batteryreport.
  3. Press Enter.
  4. Check the status of your battery. 
If you’re a Mac user:
  1. Click System Preferences from the Apple menu.
  2. Click Battery twice.
  3. Check the status of your battery. 

5. Download Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes performs a “deeper” virus scan than most antivirus tools, and it’s completely free. Download the software here and run a scan to check for trojans, spyware, bots, and other irritants. 

6. Hire an MSP

A managed services provider (MSP) constantly checks the status of your computer systems from a remote location so you can get back to doing what you do best. While hiring an MSP requires an outlay, investing in managed cybersecurity services brings multiple benefits to C-suite executives like you:
  • Prevent expensive repairs by identifying issues early.
  • Reduce downtime.
  • Improve productivity.
  • Let a professional maintain your systems, network, servers, and data centers. 
  • Reduces the chances of a cybersecurity attack.

Final Word

Follow the six tips on this list to check the current health status of your computer systems. Using diagnostic programs, running security scans, carrying out an internet speed check, reviewing your battery status, downloading Malwarebytes, and working with an MSP helps you fix even the most perplexing system problems without breaking a sweat.