Computers are machines, and they’re bound to break down from time to time — especially if we don’t maintain them. As time goes by, our computers get filled up with data and try their best to run different and increasingly sophisticated programs. Because of this, it’s only responsible that we periodically check-in on how our computers are doing.
The good news is you don’t need to be a computer expert to get an idea of how healthy your Windows PC is. With that being said, we’ve listed a few steps to see how your computer’s components are performing.
In most cases, your computer probably has an issue with memory if it’s starting to run slowly or has a problem booting up. Barbara Decares notes on Medium that good computer memory is important because this is where data is processed, and where the instructions for processing are stored.
To find any issues with your memory, you can run the built-in Windows diagnostic tool for RAM, which is the Windows Memory Diagnostics. Be sure to complete a diagnosis process and view the diagnosis report. By checking the result logs of the memory test, you can find out detailed information about your RAM and take the necessary steps in case you do have memory problems.
Assess Your CPU
Because it’s a central part of your computer, there are a lot of issues that can surface if your CPU is not in its best shape. However, there can be telltale signs that your CPU needs help. For example, your computer can randomly crash and generate a general protection fault error message, or instead of booting up, it shows you a beep code on your screen. Another warning sign to look out for is high CPU temperature, according to Dwight Pavlovic’s article on HP. A temperature of 60°C (140°F) or below should be pretty normal for computer CPUs, but anything above that can definitely be a cause for concern. This is mainly because your CPU might be running into physical problems from poor maintenance like a build-up of dust or bad ventilation.
So to check your CPU’s health, you should do scans. First, open up your computer and take a good look at how your CPU is doing. Be sure to search for any signs of dust, which can make your computer overheat. If you think it is clean enough, you can run diagnostic software like CPU-Z to check the performance of your CPU and diagnose any issues.
Evaluate the Disk
Lastly, you should check where your computer’s hard disk drive. If it’s a little full, your computer’s performance can be affected. What’s worse, if your hard disk runs into problems, you risk losing your precious files and programs. So, be sure to regularly check your hard drive in case your computer freezes or crashes.
One way to check for errors in your hard drive is by using partition management software like MiniTool Partition Wizard. It does more than just check your files for errors, as it can also evaluate how it performs. In addition, you should also take active steps to take care of your data. The Guardian’s Jack Schofield emphasizes how you should always back up your data just in case, either through an external hard drive or by uploading your files to a cloud storage platform.
All in all, having to check your Windows PC’s health is not that scary or big of a task. Even without the most comprehensive knowledge about computers, anyone can actively maintain their PCs, as long as they have the patience and desire to take care of their devices.