You rely on your computer for staying connected with family, managing your photos, reading the news, and handling important documents. Just like a car needs regular oil changes, your computer benefits greatly from a little ongoing care. This article provides straightforward, actionable steps for basic computer maintenance that helps keep your Windows PC, Mac, or Chromebook running smoothly and reliably. You will discover practical ways to maintain your computer’s health, prevent frustrations, and extend its lifespan.

Regular maintenance ensures your computer responds quickly, keeps your information safe, and helps you avoid unexpected problems. Think of these tips as small investments of your time that pay off with a much better computing experience. We will guide you through essential tasks such as keeping your software updated, decluttering your digital space, and understanding simple security measures, all in an easy to follow manner. Let’s make sure your computer is always ready when you need it.

Table of Contents

• Why Regular Computer Maintenance Matters for You
• Keep Your Software Up-to-Date: The Foundation of Health
• Decluttering Your Digital Space: Files and Folders
• Tidy Up Your Web Browser
• Safeguarding Your Computer: Antivirus and Security
• Physical Cleaning: Don’t Forget the Outside!
• Back Up Your Precious Memories and Documents
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• When to Ask for Help
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Regular Computer Maintenance Matters for You

You might wonder why you need to bother with computer maintenance. The truth is, a little preventative care goes a long way in making your computer experience far more pleasant. Think about your daily life. Over time, digital clutter accumulates, software can become outdated, and minor issues can turn into bigger headaches. Just as you tidy your home or take your car for a tune-up, your computer also benefits from regular attention.

Here are the key benefits you gain from performing basic PC maintenance tips:

• Faster Performance: When your computer is organized and updated, it does not have to work as hard. This means programs open faster, websites load quicker, and your overall experience feels much smoother. You will spend less time waiting and more time doing what you want to do.
• Improved Security: Updates often include important security patches that protect your computer from new threats. Regular maintenance, including keeping your security software current, acts like a shield, safeguarding your personal information and privacy.
• Fewer Frustrations: Many common computer problems, like slow startups, freezing programs, or strange errors, stem from a lack of routine care. By proactively addressing these areas, you significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering these frustrating issues.
• Extended Lifespan: A well-maintained computer tends to last longer. By keeping its software healthy and its physical components clean, you can potentially postpone the need for a new device, saving you money in the long run.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your computer is well-cared for, that your files are organized, and your security is up-to-date provides a great sense of confidence. You can use your computer without constantly worrying about what might go wrong.

You might feel overwhelmed at first, but remember, basic computer maintenance involves simple steps. You do not need to be a tech expert. We will guide you through each task with clear, easy to follow instructions, empowering you to keep your digital companion in excellent shape.

Keep Your Software Up-to-Date: The Foundation of Health

One of the most important aspects of how to maintain computer health is keeping your operating system and other software updated. Think of software updates like regular check-ups and improvements for your computer’s brain. They bring new features, fix annoying “bugs” (small errors), and, most importantly, address security vulnerabilities that could leave your computer open to harm.

Windows 10/11 Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates for Windows. These are critical for security and performance.

How to Check for Updates:

1. Look for the Start button. This is the Windows logo, usually located in the bottom left corner of your screen on the taskbar. Press the left mouse button once to “click” it.
2. From the menu that appears, “click” on Settings. It often looks like a gear icon.
3. In the Settings window:
   • If you have Windows 10, “click” on Update & Security.
   • If you have Windows 11, “click” on Windows Update on the left side of the window.
4. “Click” on the button that says Check for updates.
5. Your computer will then look for available updates. If it finds any, it will start downloading and installing them. You may see a progress bar.
6. Once updates are installed, your computer might ask you to restart. It is crucial to restart when prompted to complete the installation process. You can often choose to restart immediately or schedule it for a more convenient time.

What You’ll See On Screen: You will see messages like “Checking for updates…”, “Downloading updates…”, or “Updates available”. After installation, you might see “Restart now” or “Schedule the restart”.

Benefit: According to Microsoft Support, regular updates protect against known security threats and improve your system’s stability. Approximately 77.5% of Windows users are on Windows 10 or 11, making these updates widely applicable and vital for security.

macOS Updates

Apple also provides regular updates for macOS, offering similar benefits of improved security, new features, and bug fixes.

How to Check for Updates:

1. Look for the Apple menu. This is the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen. “Click” on it.
2. From the dropdown menu, “click” on System Settings (in newer macOS versions) or System Preferences (in older versions).
3. In the window that opens:
   • If you see System Settings, “click” on General in the sidebar, then “click” on Software Update on the right.
   • If you see System Preferences, “click” on the Software Update icon.
4. Your Mac will automatically check for updates. If an update is available, you will see an option to “Upgrade Now” or “Update Now”. “Click” this button.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions. Your Mac may restart multiple times during the update process.

What You’ll See On Screen: You will see “Checking for updates…”, followed by a description of the available update (e.g., “macOS Ventura 13.5 Update”) and a button to proceed. You might see a progress bar during download and installation.

Chrome OS Updates

Chromebooks handle updates largely in the background, making it very straightforward for you.

How to Check for Updates:

1. “Click” on the time in the bottom right corner of your screen. This opens the Quick Settings panel.
2. “Click” on the Settings icon (it looks like a gear).
3. In the Settings window, “click” on About ChromeOS in the left sidebar.
4. “Click” on Check for updates.
5. If an update is available, your Chromebook will automatically download it. You will see a notification to restart your Chromebook to complete the update. “Click” the Restart button.

What You’ll See On Screen: The message “Your Chromebook is up to date” or a notification stating “Update available. Restart to update.”

Decluttering Your Digital Space: Files and Folders

Just like papers can pile up on your physical desk, digital files can accumulate on your computer. This digital clutter can slow your computer down and make it hard to find what you need. A regular cleanup is a vital part of basic PC maintenance tips.

Understanding Files and Folders

• A file is any digital item on your computer, like a document, a photo, a video, or a song.
• A folder is like a manila folder that holds your files. You create folders to keep related files together, making them easier to find and manage.

Organizing Your Documents and Photos

Creating a simple folder structure can make a huge difference.

1. Decide on Categories: Think about the main types of files you have. Common categories include “Documents,” “Pictures,” “Videos,” and “Music.”
2. Create New Folders:
   • Windows: “Click” on the File Explorer icon (it looks like a yellow folder on your taskbar). Navigate to a location like “Documents” or “Pictures” on the left side. Then, “right-click” on an empty space, choose New, and then “click” Folder. Type a name for your new folder, such as “Travel Photos 2023” or “Important Bills,” and press Enter.
   • macOS: “Click” on the Finder icon (the blue face icon on your dock). Navigate to “Documents” or “Pictures” in the sidebar. Then, “click” on File in the top menu bar, choose New Folder. Type a name and press Enter.
   • Chrome OS: “Click” on the Launcher (circle icon in the bottom left) and search for Files. Open the Files app. In the left panel, “click” on “My files,” then “click” on “New folder” at the top. Name it and “click” “Create.”
3. Move Files into Folders: Locate a file you want to organize. “Click” and hold your left mouse button on the file, then “drag” it over your new folder. Release the mouse button to drop the file into the folder. You can also “right-click” on a file, choose “Cut” or “Copy,” then open your desired folder, “right-click” inside it, and choose “Paste.”

Emptying the Recycle Bin / Trash

When you delete a file, it usually goes into a temporary holding area: the Recycle Bin on Windows or the Trash on macOS and Chrome OS. Files in these areas still take up space on your computer until you permanently delete them.

How to Empty:

• Windows: Look for the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop. “Right-click” on it, then “click” on Empty Recycle Bin. Confirm your decision when prompted.
• macOS: Look for the Trash icon at the far right of your dock. “Right-click” on it, then “click” on Empty Trash. Confirm when prompted.
• Chrome OS: Open the Files app. In the left sidebar, “click” on Trash. At the top right, “click” “Empty trash.” Confirm.

What You’ll See On Screen: A confirmation message asking if you are sure you want to permanently delete the items.

Managing Your Downloads Folder

Your “Downloads” folder often becomes a dumping ground for installers, documents, and images you only needed once. Regularly review this folder for easy cleanup.

1. Access Downloads:
   • Windows: Open File Explorer from your taskbar. “Click” on Downloads in the left sidebar.
   • macOS: Open Finder from your dock. “Click” on Downloads in the sidebar.
   • Chrome OS: Open the Files app. “Click” on Downloads in the left sidebar.
2. Review and Delete: Look through the files. If you no longer need them, “right-click” on the file and “click” Delete (Windows), Move to Trash (macOS), or simply press the Delete key (all systems). Remember to empty your Recycle Bin/Trash afterwards.

Tidy Up Your Web Browser

Your web browser (like Chrome, Edge, or Safari) is where you spend a lot of your online time. Over time, it collects information called “cache” and “cookies” to help websites load faster. While useful, too much of this data can sometimes slow down your browsing or cause websites to act strangely. Clearing it regularly is a good computer maintenance practice.

Understanding Cache and Cookies

• Cache: Your browser saves parts of websites (like images and text) you visit frequently. The next time you visit, it loads these saved parts from your computer, making the page appear faster.
• Cookies: Websites store small pieces of information on your computer called cookies. These remember things like your login status, items in a shopping cart, or your preferences.

How to Clear Browser Data (General Steps)

The steps are similar across most browsers. We will outline the common paths.

1. Open Your Browser’s Settings:
   • Google Chrome: “Click” the three vertical dots (More options) in the top right corner. Then “click” Settings.
   • Microsoft Edge: “Click” the three horizontal dots (Settings and more) in the top right corner. Then “click” Settings.
   • Apple Safari: “Click” Safari in the top left menu bar, then “click” Settings (or Preferences in older macOS versions).
2. Find Privacy/Security Section:
   • Chrome & Edge: In Settings, look for a section called Privacy and security (Chrome) or Privacy, search, and services (Edge).
   • Safari: In Settings/Preferences, “click” on the Privacy tab.
3. Clear Browsing Data:
   • Chrome: “Click” Clear browsing data. You will get a pop-up. Select a time range (e.g., “All time”). Make sure “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data” are checked. Then “click” Clear data.
   • Edge: Under “Clear browsing data,” “click” Choose what to clear. Select a time range (e.g., “All time”). Make sure “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data” are checked. Then “click” Clear now.
   • Safari: “Click” Remove All Website Data…. Confirm when prompted. (Note: Safari handles cache and cookies together here.)

What You’ll See On Screen: A window or menu asking you to choose what type of data to clear and for what time period. You will usually see options for browsing history, cookies, and cached files.

Helpful Tip: Clearing cookies might log you out of some websites, so you may need to sign in again. This is normal and a sign the process worked.

Managing Browser Extensions

Browser extensions are small programs that add extra features to your browser. While some are very useful, too many can slow down your browser or even pose security risks if they are from untrustworthy sources. Review them periodically.

1. Access Extensions:
   • Chrome: “Click” the three vertical dots > Extensions > Manage Extensions.
   • Edge: “Click” the three horizontal dots > Extensions > Manage extensions.
   • Safari: “Click” Safari in the top menu bar > Settings (or Preferences) > Extensions tab.
2. Disable or Remove: Look at your list of extensions. If you see any you do not recognize, do not use anymore, or that seem suspicious, you can disable them with a toggle switch or remove them entirely using the “Remove” or “Uninstall” button.

Benefit: A cleaner browser means faster loading times and a more secure online experience.

Safeguarding Your Computer: Antivirus and Security

Protecting your computer from malicious software, often called “malware” (a general term for viruses, spyware, and other harmful programs), is a critical part of computer maintenance. Just like locking your front door, good digital security keeps unwanted intruders out.

Windows Security (Windows Defender)

Windows 10 and 11 come with a robust, built-in security program called Windows Security (also known as Windows Defender). For most users, this is excellent protection and does not require you to purchase additional antivirus software.

How to Check Windows Security Status:

1. “Click” the Start button (Windows logo) in the bottom left.
2. Type “Windows Security” into the search bar that appears and “click” on the Windows Security app from the results.
3. In the Windows Security window, you will see several categories. Look for green checkmarks next to “Virus & threat protection,” “Firewall & network protection,” and “App & browser control.” Green checkmarks mean your protection is active.
4. If you see any yellow warning signs or red X’s, “click” on that category to see what action is recommended. Often, it is a simple fix like running a scan or updating definitions.
5. To run a quick scan, “click” on Virus & threat protection, then “click” Quick scan. This checks common areas for threats.

What You’ll See On Screen: A dashboard-like display with icons for different security areas. Green checks are good. Red or yellow icons indicate an issue. A scan progress bar will appear during a scan.

Key Insight: Data shows that 96% of malware targets Windows systems, making active and updated security software paramount for Windows users. Microsoft Support provides comprehensive guides for Windows Security.

macOS Security

Macs are generally considered less prone to traditional viruses compared to Windows PCs, but they are not immune. Apple builds several security features directly into macOS:

• XProtect: This is Apple’s built-in antivirus that automatically checks for malware. You do not need to do anything to enable it; it runs in the background.
• Gatekeeper: This feature ensures that only trusted software from verified developers can run on your Mac, preventing most unauthorized programs from being installed.

Tips for Mac Security:

1. Keep macOS Updated: As mentioned earlier, updates include crucial security patches.
2. Be Cautious with Downloads: Only download software from the App Store or trusted developer websites. If Gatekeeper warns you about an application, pay attention.
3. Beware of Phishing: Phishing scams (emails or messages pretending to be from legitimate companies to trick you into giving up personal information) affect all systems. Be skeptical of unexpected emails asking for your passwords or sensitive data.

Chrome OS Security

Chromebooks are inherently very secure because of their design:

• Automatic Updates: As discussed, Chrome OS updates automatically, including security patches.
• Sandboxing: Each web page and application runs in its own isolated “sandbox.” If one part gets infected, it cannot easily spread to other parts of the system.
• Verified Boot: Every time your Chromebook starts, it checks for tampering. If it detects any changes, it can repair itself.

For Chromebooks, the best security practices are simply to keep your system updated and be careful about what links you “click” on and what information you share online.

Your vigilance is the first line of defense. Always be cautious of unexpected emails, pop-up messages, or websites that ask for your personal information. If something feels suspicious, it probably is.

Physical Cleaning: Don’t Forget the Outside!

While digital cleanup is important, your computer also benefits from physical cleaning. Dust, fingerprints, and crumbs can hinder performance and even cause damage over time.

Before You Begin: Always turn off your computer and unplug it from the power source. For laptops, remove the battery if possible.

1. Screen Cleaning:
   • Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. Do NOT use paper towels, as they can scratch the screen.
   • Lightly dampen the cloth with water (or a specialized screen cleaner, if you have one). NEVER spray liquid directly onto the screen.
   • Gently wipe the screen from top to bottom, being careful not to press too hard.
2. Keyboard Cleaning:
   • Turn your keyboard upside down and gently shake it to dislodge loose crumbs.
   • Use a can of compressed air (available at electronics stores). Hold the can upright and use short bursts to blow debris out from between the keys.
   • Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe the surface of the keys.
3. Mouse Cleaning:
   • If you have an optical mouse (with a light underneath), use a dry cloth or cotton swab to clean the sensor area.
   • Wipe down the surface of the mouse with a slightly damp cloth.
4. Laptop Vents:
   • Laptops have vents to allow air to circulate and keep the internal components cool. These can get clogged with dust.
   • Carefully use compressed air to blow dust out of the vents. Look for openings on the sides, back, or bottom of your laptop.

Benefit: A clean computer runs cooler and extends the life of its components. Keeping dust out of vents helps prevent overheating, a common cause of slow performance or unexpected shutdowns.

Back Up Your Precious Memories and Documents

Imagine losing all your family photos, important documents, or cherished emails in an instant. This can happen if your computer has a major problem or is lost or stolen. Backing up your files means making copies of them and storing them in a separate, safe place. This is one of the most crucial basic PC maintenance tips you can adopt.

Backup Options

You have two main choices for backing up your files:

1. External Hard Drive: This is a physical device you connect to your computer, similar to a USB stick, but with much more storage. They are generally affordable and easy to use.
2. Cloud Storage: This stores your files on the internet, managed by companies like Google (Google Drive), Microsoft (OneDrive), or Apple (iCloud). Your files are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, and they are protected even if your computer is damaged.

How to Back Up Your Files

Windows: File History or OneDrive

• File History (External Hard Drive):
  1. Connect an external hard drive to your computer.
  2. “Click” the Start button, type “File History” and “click” on File History settings.
  3. “Click” Turn on if it is not already active. Windows will automatically start backing up your “Documents,” “Pictures,” “Videos,” and other personal folders to the external drive.
• OneDrive (Cloud Storage):
  1. OneDrive is built into Windows. You usually have a small amount of free storage.
  2. You can set up folders like “Documents” and “Pictures” to automatically sync to OneDrive. To do this, “right-click” on the OneDrive cloud icon in the bottom right corner (near the clock) of your taskbar, “click” Settings, then go to the Backup tab, and “click” Manage backup. Choose which folders you want to protect.

macOS: Time Machine or iCloud

• Time Machine (External Hard Drive):
  1. Connect an external hard drive to your Mac. When you connect a new drive, macOS will usually ask if you want to use it for Time Machine. “Click” Use as Backup Disk.
  2. If not, “click” the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > General > Time Machine. “Click” Add Backup Disk and select your external drive.
  3. Time Machine automatically creates hourly, daily, and weekly backups.
• iCloud (Cloud Storage):
  1. iCloud is integrated with macOS. You get some free storage.
  2. “Click” the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > “Click” on your Apple ID at the top of the sidebar.
  3. “Click” iCloud Drive and ensure “Desktop & Documents Folders” are selected for syncing.

Chrome OS: Google Drive

• Chromebooks integrate seamlessly with Google Drive, which is Google’s cloud storage service.
  1. All files saved in your “My files” > “Google Drive” folder in the Files app are automatically backed up to Google Drive online.
  2. You can “drag” and “drop” important local files into your Google Drive folder.
  3. For larger backups to an external drive, “click” on the Launcher (circle icon in bottom left) and search for Files. Open the Files app. Connect your external drive. “Drag” the folders you want to back up from your Chromebook’s “My files” to your external drive.

Backing up is a small effort with a huge reward. You are protecting your irreplaceable memories and vital information. Make it a regular habit, perhaps once a month or whenever you add significant new files.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with excellent computer maintenance, you might occasionally encounter a minor snag. Do not panic! Many common issues have simple solutions.

Slow Performance

Your computer feels sluggish, programs open slowly, or everything seems to drag.

• Too Many Programs Open: You might have many applications running in the background or too many browser tabs open. Close programs and tabs you are not actively using.
• Restart Your Computer: This is often the simplest and most effective fix for many performance issues. A restart clears out temporary data and resets your system.
• Check for Updates: Ensure your operating system and browser are up to date. Sometimes, performance improvements are included in these updates.
• Scan for Malware: Run a full scan with your antivirus software (Windows Security for Windows users) to rule out any malicious software slowing things down.

Programs Freezing or Not Responding

A program stops responding to your clicks, or the whole computer seems stuck.

• Force Quit the Program:
  • Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open the Task Manager. Find the frozen program in the list, “click” on it, and then “click” End task.
  • macOS: Press Command + Option + Esc on your keyboard to open the Force Quit Applications window. Select the frozen program and “click” Force Quit.
  • Chrome OS: Press Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. Select the frozen app and “click” End process.
• Restart: If force-quitting a program does not work, or if your entire computer is frozen, a restart is the next step. Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off, then wait a few seconds and press it again to turn it back on.

Printer Problems

Your printer is not printing, or the document looks wrong.

• Check Connections: Ensure the printer’s power cable is securely plugged in and the USB cable (if wired) is connected to both the printer and the computer. If it is a wireless printer, ensure both the printer and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Printer Power: Turn the printer off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. This often resolves minor glitches.
• Check Paper and Ink/Toner: Make sure there is paper in the tray and enough ink or toner.
• Restart Both: Sometimes restarting your computer AND your printer can resolve connection issues.
• Check Print Queue:
  • Windows: “Click” the Start button, type “Printers & scanners,” and “click” on the setting. Find your printer, “click” on it, then “click” Open print queue. You can cancel stalled documents here.
  • macOS: “Click” the Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > Printers & Scanners. “Click” on your printer, then “click” Open Print Queue.
  • Chrome OS: “Click” the time in the bottom right, then Settings > Printers. You may see pending jobs here.

Common Thread: Many common computer issues can be resolved by simply restarting the device. It is a fundamental troubleshooting step.

When to Ask for Help

While basic computer maintenance empowers you to handle many common tasks, there are times when seeking help is the smartest choice. You are not expected to be a computer expert, and knowing when to reach out saves you time and prevents potential damage.

Consider asking for help if:

• You Encounter Persistent Problems: If an issue, like a program crashing repeatedly, persistent slowness, or unusual error messages, does not resolve after trying simple troubleshooting steps (like restarting or checking for updates), it might indicate a more complex problem.
• You Are Unsure About a Step: If any instruction feels unclear, or you are worried about making a mistake, pause and ask. It is always better to be safe than sorry, especially when dealing with system settings or deleting files.
• You Suspect a Virus or Serious Malware: If your computer is behaving very strangely, displaying pop-ups you cannot close, or running extremely slowly despite your efforts, you might have a significant infection. Professional help can remove these safely.
• You Need Hardware Repair: If something physical on your computer is broken (e.g., a cracked screen, a keyboard that does not work, or strange noises coming from inside), you will need a professional.
• You Are Setting Up Something New: Connecting a complex new peripheral, setting up a home network, or configuring advanced software can sometimes be tricky. Getting assistance with initial setup can save you a lot of frustration.

Who Can You Ask?

• Tech-Savvy Family or Friends: If you have a trusted family member or friend who is good with computers, they can often provide quick, reliable help.
• Computer Repair Shops: For more serious issues, or if you do not have personal support, a local computer repair shop is a great option. Look for shops with good reviews and clear pricing.
• Official Support Resources:
  • Microsoft Support: https://support.microsoft.com for Windows issues.
  • Apple Support: https://support.apple.com for Mac problems.
  • Google Support: https://support.google.com for Chromebooks.
  • GCFGlobal — Technology Tutorials: https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/topics/technology/ offers free, easy to understand tutorials on various tech topics.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of good judgment, not a lack of skill. Your goal is to keep your computer running smoothly, and sometimes that means relying on an expert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions you might have about computer maintenance.

Q: How often should I perform computer maintenance tasks?
A: For updates, set them to automatic or check weekly. For digital cleanup (Recycle Bin, Downloads folder, browser cache), aim for once a month. Physical cleaning can be done every few months, or more often if your environment is dusty. Backups should be frequent, at least monthly, or whenever you add significant new files or photos.

Q: Will cleaning my computer delete my important files?
A: No, following these basic computer maintenance tips will not delete your important files unless you specifically tell your computer to do so. Emptying the Recycle Bin/Trash, clearing browser cache, and deleting old downloads only removes temporary or unwanted items. Your personal documents, photos, and videos are safe when you follow the steps outlined here.

Q: Do I need to buy expensive antivirus software for my computer?
A: For most Windows users, the built-in Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) provides excellent protection and is included free with your operating system. macOS has its own strong built-in security features, and Chromebooks are designed with security deeply integrated. While some advanced users might choose third-party options, for everyday use, your existing protection is usually sufficient when kept updated.

Q: My computer is still slow after trying these steps. What else can I do?
A: If your computer remains slow after applying these basic PC maintenance tips, consider checking how much storage space you have left. A very full hard drive can slow things down. You might also have too many programs launching automatically when you turn on your computer. If issues persist, it may be time to consult a trusted family member or a professional repair service. They can help diagnose more complex problems, such as hardware issues or more deeply embedded software conflicts.

Keeping your computer running smoothly does not have to be a daunting task. By regularly applying these straightforward maintenance tips, you ensure your device remains fast, secure, and reliable. You have the power to extend your computer’s life and enhance your digital experience, all while building confidence in your tech skills.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Your computer’s screens may look slightly different depending on your operating system version and settings. When in doubt, consult official support resources or ask someone you trust for help.