Households with children have an average of more than 23 tech devices— and not surprisingly, shorter life expectancy for their laptops, phones and tablets.
As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s time to make sure devices are ready for the academic year ahead. Tech experts at uBreakiFix by Asurion have seen everything from minor scratches to destroyed devices and can provide helpful advice for families needing to refresh their tech as the school year starts.
Update Software and Operating Systems
First and foremost, ensure that all devices have the latest software updates installed. Operating system updates not only bring new features but also include important security patches and bug fixes. For laptops and desktops, check for updates through the operating system’s settings. For tablets and smartphones, navigate to the Settings menu and look for software updates.
Tip: Set devices to automatically update software when available to keep them secure and up-to-date throughout the year.
Clean Up Storage
Over time, devices accumulate a lot of unnecessary files, apps and media that can slow them down. Conduct a storage cleanup by:
- Backing Up Important Files: Save important documents, photos and videos to a cloud service or external storage to ensure they are not lost during the cleanup process.
- Deleting Unused Apps: Review and remove apps that are no longer needed.
- Clearing Cached Data: Apps and browsers store temporary files that can be cleared to free up space.
Tip: Teach kids to organize files into folders and apps into categories for easier access and management.
Run Security Checks
Security is paramount, especially with kids using devices for schoolwork and communication. Ensure the following:
- Install Antivirus Software: Make sure that any antivirus or anti-malware software is updated and running scans regularly.
- Enable Firewalls: Check that the device’s firewall is activated to protect against unauthorized access.
- Review Privacy Settings: Go through the privacy settings of apps and services to ensure that sensitive information is protected.
Tip: Educate kids about the importance of avoiding unknown apps and suspicious links.
Check Battery Health
A well-functioning battery is crucial for uninterrupted schoolwork. To maintain battery health:
- Calibrate the Battery: Fully charge the device, then use it until the battery is completely depleted and recharge it to 100%.
- Check Battery Health: Many devices have built-in tools to assess battery health and performance. Use these tools to determine if a battery replacement or repair is needed.
Tip: To get the most life out of a battery, keep the charge between 40% and 80% and top off your device throughout the day.
Test All Functionality
Before school starts, test all essential functions of the device:
- Check Connectivity: Ensure that Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and other connectivity features are working correctly.
- Test Key Applications: Open and test key applications like word processors, email and educational apps to ensure they launch and perform as expected.
- Verify Peripheral Devices: If using peripherals like printers, external drives or headphones, make sure they are connected and functioning properly.
Tip: Practice using the device and its key applications to build familiarity and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Tech Sanitization
It’s important to keep devices clean and free of debris – not only to optimize their performance, but to help prevent the transfer of germs between school and home:
- Regularly disinfect laptops, tablets and phones: Mix one-part distilled water with one-part alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) and lightly dampen a microfiber cloth. Turn off the device, remove the case if it has one, and gently wipe the exterior and keyboard.
- Cleaning the case: Remove the case and hand wash it. For plastic or glass, use soap and water, disinfectant spray, disinfectant wipes or glass cleaner. If you have a leather case but no leather cleaner, wipe it down with soap and water. Make sure it is completely dry before putting the case back on your device.
- What NOT to do: When cleaning devices, be very careful to avoid any moisture getting under the keyboard or into any cracks or ports. Don’t spray the solution or any spray cleaners directly on your laptop, tablet or phone, as doing so can damage the device.
With these steps, kids will be well-equipped to tackle the new school year and stay ahead of the curve. If you need assistance with tune-up or malfunctioning devices, stop by any of our Pennsylvania-area uBreakiFix by Asurion stores or visit ubreakifix.com.
Image: ID 201622317 © Wirestock | Dreamstime.com
Terry Grezda
Terry has been in the electronics repair industry for 10 years and is a multi-unit franchisee with uBreakiFix. He owns three franchises with his business partners. They all started work in the field as basic repair technicians and have since grown to business ownership. They are proud to work with and help all the people of King Prussia, York and Exton.
