5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Mac Running Like New

Everyone wants the next-best thing, especially Apple enthusiasts. However, with the economy in the trenches some of us have had to re-think out techno-buying habits to a more realistic level. Little do you know that the computer your using could simply do with a little TLC.

Although Mac users don't feel the processing pinch as much as their PC counterparts; like all other technologies do eventually slow down from the build up of files, 3rd party software, and general wear and tear. Here are some simple tips to get your older machine back on its feet ready for round 2.

1. A Good File System 

Files all over the place on the desktop? Believe it or not, each one of those icons; representing images, documents and applications take up memory. It is also more difficult for the system to index (or map) where these files are if they are not put into appropriate directories (folders). Having all your files in a well structured file system is the first  (and cheapest!) way to ensure the way your mac finds and loads your files as fast as possible.

2. Clean the Clock

The first time you use a computer file, the system must search for the file on the hard disk, and this can take time. Instead of having to run the search every time you click on an icon, the computer maps out where on the hard drive the file is so the next time you look for it the system will find it faster. Good idea. However, there is a drawback to this system. Each one of these little maps is a file, and over time they can build up in your cache, slowing it down.

Such is the same with your web browser. Ever hear of a thing called a cookie? That is more or less a file on your computer telling the browser how to find a website you recently visited a little faster the second time. These files can also build up to a large number and it can be a good idea to clear them out.

An extremely useful tool for cleaning cache and cookies is a piece of software called Onyx (its free!)*. It has a cleaning process that will delete the old files and clear up hard drive space. Remember, system maintenance is your responsibility so make sure you have a back up of all your important stuff before using this software. Don't exactly feel up to it? Book your computer with our service experts at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Please leave your name and mobile with a description of your problem.

3. Storage

When you bought your Mac, the hard drive was at the top of the pile. Loads of space and no worries about things getting too cluttered. Well, unfortunately that is a scenario for the perfect world. Especially now that we are a society that downloads everything off the net. As was explained earlier, your Mac OS maps out your filing system, and the more organised your filing system the better for the computer. But there is never any harm in making the system smaller and easier to manage by moving old or unwanted files onto a backup external drive. The same can be said about films.  Video files take up a huge amount of space. Its good practice to keep the files you use often and back up the files you don't need. For a list of hard drives the service experts suggest click here.

4. Disk Permissions

Permissions tell the system weather or not a file can be read, written, or executed. Sometimes these permissions can change and this can slow the system down or cause errors down the road. Your Mac is aready prepared for this situation with a tool called Disk  Utility*. Go yo your spotlight in the right hand corner and type in disk.  Click on Disk Utility. Then click on First Aid and then Fix Disk Permissions. Leave your system alone for a bout 10 or 15 minutes.

5. RAM

An increase in RAM will lead to the most dramatic increase in performance in your Mac. A while ago this piece of hardware was extremely expensive, but the price has come down dramatically and spending as little as €50 or €60 will do wonders for your computer. Depending on your computer, the installation of this hardware can be a little tricky. For most people, opening up your computer is something left to the experts, and rightly so. However, for the cost of a days service you may increase the life of your computer for another two years.

Remember, Screenway have a team of trained Apple Service Experts, and will be more than willing to upgrade your computer. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to book an appointment. Please leave your name and mobile with a description of your problem.

*Screenway is providing links to these applications as a courtesy, and makes no representations regarding the applications or any information related thereto. Any questions, complaints or claims regarding the applications must be directed to the appropriate software vendor.