Laptop computers are different than desktop PCs: they're small, portable, lighter and more convenient to use. The price for this convenience is understanding and adapting Windows to make a laptop computer run well and changing your perspective on what "security" really means. Here are some suggestions.
Use the Windows Mobility Center
The Windows Mobility Center is a handy, easy to use control panel that allows laptop users to quickly change many settings to fit a unique or temporary situation.
Design a Power Plan
Laptops, whether Notebooks or Netbooks, use power differently than desktop computers that are always connected or plugged-in to a wall outlet. Most newer laptops have better batteries with higher capacity. Still, setting up Windows to maximize power use can substantially improve the overall computer experience, extend battery life and reduce repetitive actions.
Connect to Wireless Networks
Laptops can use both wired and wireless connections – but, most use wireless because it's easier. There are more things to think about with wireless connections: getting a good connection and throughput speed, having a secure connection as well as finding new available connections. Beyond that is connecting to your current home network and doing things like using a shared printer, especially if it's a printer attached to an old XP old computer.
Disable Unneeded Windows Features
There are many services in Vista that operate in the background, but actually add nothing to the user's experience (because these features are not used). Disabling unused services will make a noticeable difference and increase in laptop speed.
Understand Physical Security
No, not access security, security from physical theft of the computer. In all likelihood, you have a 100 times greater chance of getting your laptop stolen than you do getting your computer hacked into by an Internet intruder. These devices are light, everywhere and not particularly well protected. Above all is the advice: don’t be stupid with your possessions, watch them carefully. If you think this is a joke, checkout how many Laptops are lost in airports every week.
Protect Your Information: Backup and Restore That Laptop
The clear mark of a laptop is how well it bounces (survives being dropped). Like a motorcycle, it is just a matter of time before it hits the ground. The only problem is that laptops have hard drives and circuit boards. These things do not take kindly to being jarred. Backing up all important data is the only way to recover from a problem; not doing so is just asking for trouble.
Speeding Up a Slow Laptop
“What are you waiting for?” - you ask the screen, after looking at it for more than 15 seconds without seeing any movement or change. Yes, computers get slow and stay slow unless we do something about it. Like desktop computers, laptops can be optimized to run much faster.
Avoid Heating issues
Laptops can get very hot, not only because of the electronics in them, but also because there’s not much air pushing away the heat. This are especially noticeable if you have tried to rest one on your lap for any length of time. Among these ideas is a little common sense:
- Use a chill pad
- Put it in Sleep mode when it's not in use
- Assure it’s off before you store it in a brief case or other closed container