Out with the old and in with the new

The average computer lasts three to five years before dying, but, depending on wear and tear, make and model, and level of use, the life span can be longer or shorter. It may be hard to tell when a computer just needs a little maintenance and cleaning or it straight up needs to be replaced. However, there are usually four major signs that can alert you to your computer being on, or over, the brink.

Firstly, if the computer no longer adapts to it's surroundings, it needs to be replaced. Such as, if the computer will not install updates due to space or hardware requirements, its time to start looking for a new one. This is because updates help keep your computer safer and run better. The other part of this is that, if the computer no longer has the hardware to have modern tools plugged into it, it needs to be upgraded. For example, if your computer does not have an USB port - even if you do not currently use flash drives - if the keyboard goes out or you need to take it somewhere for troubleshooting, you will want to be able to plug in a keyboard or the support team may need to use a flash drive to install fix-it tools to your system. It is important to upgrade to a system that can adapt to the demands of the ever changing tech world.
 
Another sign is slowness with no change after "cleanings". As I mentioned earlier, slowness may not always be a signal that your computer is dying. In fact, depending on what is causing it, you may be able to simply run scans to remove malware, clean up your files, remove old programs you no longer use, etc... However, if after those measures you are still unable to get your computer to run at a good speed, it may be time to get a new system, unless you are working on developing your patience.

Glitches and failed boots are another bad sign. Again, these signs are not 100% indicative of bad hardware or irreparable software. It may be that you have a corrupt file or program that is crashing or a multitude of other setting and file issues, which can usually be fixed with a fresh install or troubleshooting. However, it can also mean that the hardware components of your computer are beginning to give out or that an integral part of the software has gotten corrupted, in which case, there is a good chance your computer is about ready to go and you need to think about getting a new one.

Finally, weird sounds are pretty good indicators of something that has or is about to fail. There is a site that has complied a list of sounds a computer makes when it is broken. If your computer is having issues and you want to compare, or you are curious/bored and want to check them out, feel free to follow this link. Having a fan give out or losing a battery can usually be fixed by simply replacing that piece, but when replacing individual pieces you'll have to weigh the cost of replacing it versus just getting a whole new system.

It can be hard to let go of a computer - over the years you become used to the quirks and you finally have all of your files just where you want them - but new technology can be fun and exciting. The cleaning out of the old may open up new doors and possibilities.

If you are having troubles with your computer or have questions about troubleshooting, feel free to give us a call at (501) 279-4545.

Happy computing!