Just because you've been using a computer for years doesn't necessarily mean you know all the secrets of computers.
So here are 10 things you absolutely need to know if you want to save time, money, and, most importantly, a lot of frustration using your computer, both at home and at work.
1- Know different search engines
Do you sometimes search for information on Google, but cannot find it? Know that there are many other search engines than Bing or Google!
The WolframAlpha engine is a good example of an alternative search engine. Ask him a question and see the results returned! The engine only works in English, but for mathematical reasons, it's pretty universal.
2- Perform the updates
Whether it's Windows, Mac OS, or the software you use, it's critical to make updates as they become available. You will close security breaches in your computer and take advantage of new features at the same time.
3- Use keyboard shortcuts
If you type CTRL-S, rather than looking for the "save" icon in software, you save precious seconds several times a day (if not per hour!) ...
There are a host of keyboard shortcuts on Windows (and Mac OS). It is enough to learn some of the most used: your life will be greatly simplified.
Among the most used shortcuts in Windows, we note:
- CTRL-S: save
- CTRL-Z: undo the last operation ( Undo )
- CTRL-C: copy to clipboard
- CTRL-X: cut (and copy the cut text to the clipboard)
- CTRL-V: paste the contents of the clipboard
- CTRL-W: close the active tab, window, or document
- CTRL-P: print
- ALT-F4: close the current application
- Windows-M: minimize all windows and go to Windows Desktop
Here is also a list of useful keyboard shortcuts for Windows 8.
4- Make a backup copy of your data
Imagine what would happen if your primary hard drive stopped working? If you lose your photos, your important documents ...
Here are some suggestions for online backup services that could save your life. It would also be good to consider purchasing an external hard drive to copy a duplicate of your important files to it if you don't already have one.
5- Connect the different cables
You probably thought that hooking up a computer was complicated, and it was true… in the old days!
Imagine: before, there was a parallel port for the printer, a serial port for the modem, a socket for the keyboard, one for the mouse ...
Today, with the USB standard, everything can be plugged in anywhere! Take a few seconds to look behind your computer and you will see ...
All that's left is the sound card, which has color-coded audio cables and jacks, and then the network (Ethernet) cable, which looks like a thick telephone cable. Simple, right?
Tip: You can even identify the end of every USB cable that goes behind your computer - when you need to unplug a cable, you are less likely to go wrong.
6- Share large files
Whether it's a funny video of your kids or a presentation for an important client, one day you'll need to share a big file with someone.
So here are some suggestions for online file-sharing services to make your job easier.
7- Have antivirus software
Many people don't install antivirus software on their computers because they think it's expensive, the antivirus will "slow down" their PCs, or worse because they're cautious. Know that it is not. Computers today are fast enough that everything runs seamlessly in the background. Viruses and worms are also capable of going unnoticed and infiltrating without your knowledge ...
If you refuse to shell out for such a tool, be aware that software is free, like Windows Security Essentials, to name a few.
Among the paid solutions, I recommend total security, which I have been using for two years already.
8- Access your computer remotely
In fact, whether it is accessing your own computer remotely or that of a friend or family member to troubleshoot it, it helps to have a solution in place to access it quickly.
Even Google's Hangouts service and Microsoft's Skype software now allow you to take control of a computer remotely (if the user allows you, of course)!
9- Improve your wireless network
When setting up a home or office network, make sure it is secured with a strong password and encryption (usually WPA2 type ).
Then follow these few tips to improve the overall performance of your wireless network.
10- Protect your personal information
Information spreads quickly on the Internet and criminals are on the lookout for any personal information leaked on social media.
Learn how to properly manage the information you share on social media, shop securely online, and create strong passwords to protect yourself against identity theft.
Please feel free to share your own essential tips to know with readers by leaving a comment below!
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