MacBooks are quite reliable when it comes to overall performance. However, if you are not careful with how you use it, the computer will slow down eventually, leaving you with a poorly performing device.
Using a Mac that crashes, freezes, feels sluggish, and even restarts randomly is not a fun experience.
Of course, MacBooks are like other computers in the sense that they have limited longevity, but since you invested a lot of money in the device, it makes sense to maintain it in good condition to get the most out of it.
Let’s take a look at some strategies to keep the MacBook in check and ensure that it performs optimally.
Keep Tabs on Malware
Cybersecurity threats are the first item on the list. Even though some people claim that macOS is not as prone to malware as other operating systems, cybersecurity threats targeting Macs still exist.
For starters, scan the MacBook’s system using a reliable anti-malware tool to confirm that the system is malware-free. In case the scan reveals corrupted files, delete them from the computer.
Creating security layers on the computer to prevent malware and viruses is not too difficult. Some of the most effective anti-malware strategies include:
- Having antivirus software running in the background
- Sticking to virtual private networks when surfing the net on public Wi-Fi
- Keeping macOS up to date
- Avoiding shady URLs online
- Enabling the Firewall
Clean Dust Inside
The filth that accumulates inside the laptop over time is one of those issues that can potentially snowball out of control. Many MacBook owners are reluctant to remove the dust inside their computers themselves because they could potentially damage the internal hardware.
However, letting the dust accumulate unchecked is not an option. If you do not want to clean the filth yourself, hire someone who can do the work for you. There should be a freelancer who specializes in cleaning MacBooks. A local computer service store might also offer the services.
Cleaning the dust inside your MacBook will lead to better overall performance. The laptop will not overheat as much, and the internal fan sounds will not be as loud.
Free up Drive Space
MacBooks are pretty lackluster when it comes to total available storage space. It will not take too long before the laptop’s drive has only a few free gigabytes if you are not careful.
A cluttered HDD or SSD will lead to performance problems. As a rule of thumb, at least 10 percent of total computer drive storage should be free.
Do not push the MacBook’s drive to the limit. When you notice that there is little free storage left, take some action.
Start with temporary storage. Removing app caches, old system backups, app extensions, plugins, and other temporary junk will free up the drive’s space and leave the computer’s system fewer files to process, which also helps with the overall performance.
To clean it up, get a cleanup utility tool, such as CleanMyMac X. After all, dealing with temporary storage manually is too monotonous and time-consuming.
Other than removing temporary system junk, you should also keep tabs on old applications, media files, duplicates, as well as email attachments and downloads.
It is also worth mentioning that you do not have to focus on removing files permanently. Transferring data to an external hard drive or iCloud is also a viable option.
Stop Memory Leaks
Memory leaks occur when an application distributes the computer’s memory incorrectly. If your MacBook has been running for a while, you should not be surprised to notice that it slowed down.
The simplest solution to stop memory leaks is to restart your Mac. It is recommended to restart the computer regularly. For example, if you use your laptop for 8 hours, you should restart it two to three times in that time span.
In case you are reluctant to restart the MacBook because it takes too long to load due to all the startup items, disable startup applications in System Preferences. Optimizing the desktop should also speed up your laptop’s loading, especially if you get rid of the clutter.
Optimize Battery Usage
A poor battery lifespan is one of the indications that a MacBook is starting to underperform. If you notice that the frequency of charging the computer is starting to increase, take some action.
You could keep closer tabs on Activity Monitor to determine processes that consume the most resources. Some background apps might be redundant. Thus, instead of letting them run in the background, quit these applications to improve the MacBook’s battery lifespan.
Visual effects are another example of how a computer’s feature becomes a hindrance. There is no point in enabling visual effects when they offer no value while consuming the battery’s life.
Finally, if you have a habit of putting the MacBook into sleep mode after you are done with the computer, get rid of that and shut the laptop down instead. Doing this will also help with the overall battery lifespan.