Why does turning your computer off and then on help to fix so many tech issues?
This question has gained notable attention, partly due to its association with The IT Crowd, a show that humorously advocates for solving tech issues by ‘power cycling’ devices.
However, beyond the humour, recommending a restart to users is a common and effective practice. It frequently resolves various problems with impressive success.
You might be curious about why such a simple action yields remarkable results.
Imagine this scenario: when you use your computer, it generates temporary files that accumulate and clutter your system. Simultaneously, your web browser stores cached files from the websites you visit.
Over time, these files accumulate, consuming valuable resources and causing your device’s performance to degrade. This is where the reboot comes to the rescue. Restarting your device clears out this digital clutter, providing a fresh start and often resolving performance issues.
But there’s more to it: if a regular restart doesn’t suffice, there’s a hidden technique.
Power off your device and count to 20. This not only flushes the cache but also ensures that any lingering background programs are fully terminated, resulting in improved performance after starting back up.
Now, here’s a less amusing twist: if your device is compromised by sophisticated malware, it can analyse its ‘uptime’ to determine when you last restarted. This poses a problem because Microsoft releases critical patches each month to address vulnerabilities. Hackers with malicious intent can exploit this information to target devices that haven’t received crucial updates, leaving them susceptible to attacks.
But here’s the crucial point: it’s not only Windows devices that benefit from a digital nap. Phones, Macs, and even seemingly sluggish TVs can all benefit from the classic ‘power cycle’.
So, the next time tech support suggests a reboot, don’t dismiss it with scepticism. You’re now privy to the secret — a restart can indeed work wonders.
And let’s be honest. If it doesn’t, there’s always the option to contact them again. Nonetheless, more often than not, that restart button holds a touch of digital magic that can solve the problem.
Hopefully, this article has shed light on the topic. If you’re interested in reading more similar stories or have questions, feel free to reach out to us at askatech@mmg.com.au