Laptops and tablets are convenient, reliable mobile devices, but can be easily damaged. You should avoid eating or drinking food around your laptop, as one crumb or drop of soda could send your computer to the repair shop.
Laptops emit a lot of heat, so it's important to allow your machine to ventilate properly and not expose it to intense heat or sun for long periods of time. Just like you, your laptop may need to take a break from time to time. Instead of always using the sleep option, make sure you shut down your computer completely on a regular basis.
Often, it is the loss of data from laptops rather than the loss of laptops themselves that causes the most problems. Back up your computer's hard drive to a separate device, such as a USB drive or external hard drive, or a file share, such as UChicago Box, on a regular basis.
It is best never to store social security numbers, credit card numbers, bank account numbers, and or passwords on your laptop unless those numbers are encrypted. As a security measure, you can encrypt files on your computer if they contain confidential information. Encrypted files can only be opened with an encryption key or password.
Before discarding your laptop or tablet, be sure to wipe the data. You might consider using free disk-wiping software such as Darik's Boot and Nuke (DBAN) or Active@ Kill Disk.
In the event of computer compromise or malfunction, you may need to reinstall your computer's operating system. So make sure to keep a copy of your system software or recovery CDs or DVDs in a safe place.
It is crucial for you to keep your operating system and applications up to date, enable your operating system's firewall, and install an anti-virus application to maintain the safety and health of your laptop or tablet. Computers are often infected with malware and viruses because the operating system or installed software is out of date. Be sure to set your computer to automatically look for updates on a weekly basis.
Laptops and tablets are light, convenient, and so easy to just leave sitting and forget about. Don't let that happen to your device. Password protect your laptop and tablet to discourage theft and consider investing in a physical laptop lock.
The University of Chicago Police Department (UCPD) offers the computer theft-deterrent program Security Tracking of Office Property (STOP). The STOP tag is a security plate and warning label that is attached to the computer. Ownership information is programmed onto the tag then entered into an international database so that your device can be returned to you if found. There is a minimal fee for each tag requested. You may sign up for the program individually or in groups. Upon request, a representative can come to your area to do group tagging. Contact the UCPD's Community Relations Unit at 773.702.6008 or ucpd-cru@uchicago.edu for more information.
Remember, you are the owner of your device and responsible for its safety and proper use. To avoid abuse, never share your computer with people you do not trust or share your CNetID password with others.