With the Christmas holidays almost here, a lot of business and home computers will spend a good part of the next month turned off. Even though they are shut down, bad things can still happen. There’s a number of things you should do before heading off for a break.
Before you go
Backup
Before shutting down for the holidays backup all your important data. Your backup should include favourites, mail, address books and documents. Some programs, such as accounting systems, have their own backup routines.
Store the backups away from the computer, preferably offsite. We recommend making two copies, leave one onsite for easy access and store one elsewhere. If something terrible happens to your home or office while you are away, your data is at least safe.
For working and essential documents, setting up a free Dropbox service and copying them to it is a great idea. Dropbox is also good for saving documents you foolishly intend to work on while you’re away as well as essential documents.
Turn everything off
Printers, modems, routers, should all be turned off and disconnected from power and communications lines. Most modern computer equipment still has power running through it even though it is turned off. Power surges from storms are common, so don’t take chances.
If your computer is connected to a network, telephone line or cable connection then these should all be disconnected as well. Power surges are common on communications cables. Everything that connects your computer to the outside world should be turned off and unplugged.
Hide your equipment
Give thieves as little temptation as possible. Don’t leave computers in full view. Lock away anything portable and draw the curtains or blinds in the room where your computer is kept.
What to pack
As technology becomes an essential part of our lives, we tend to take it with us. This is particularly true with devices like iPads and DVD equipped laptops which are as much entertainment devices as they are for work.
To get the most from them, there’s a few things to consider when packing.
Update your systems
Run the update routines for your operating system, essential software and security programs before you leave so there will be no major updates clogging up your downloads while you try to work or play.
Power
The most irritating thing when on the road with a computer is running out of power. Do you have all your chargers packed away? If you have space it’s also a good idea to carry a powerboard so you can share scarce power outlets with other users.
Connectors
Don’t forget your USB cables to connect phones and cameras so you can download photos, update music and, for some devices, recharge them.
Packing
If you are flying anywhere, it’s best to take electronics with you as carry on baggage. Carry them in a bag where they are easily accessible so you can take them out without fuss at security checkpoints.
When you return
Your computer is the very last thing you should turn on. Make sure modems, printers, external drives and networks are all running before turning your computer on. If you have a cable Internet connection, give it a few minutes to connect before trying to log on.
Update your system.
Before checking emails or surfing the net, update your anti-virus and check for any system updates. Run Windows Update and your anti-virus program’s update program. New nasties will have come out while you are away and there’s a good chance some of them may be waiting in your inbox.
Christmas and New Year are a time to relax, by taking a few easy steps with your technology you can ensure your phones and computers are part of an enjoyable break.
Have a merry Christmas and a great New Year.
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