How can you protect your computer from power surges and outages?

1 Use a surge protector

A surge protector is a device that plugs into your wall outlet and filters the electricity that goes to your computer and other devices. It protects them from sudden spikes or drops in voltage that can fry your circuits or cause glitches. You should use a surge protector for any device that has a power cord, such as your monitor, printer, router, or speakers. Make sure you choose a surge protector that has a high joule rating, which indicates how much energy it can absorb.

2 Get a UPS

A UPS, or uninterruptible power supply, is a battery backup that provides power to your computer and other devices in case of a power outage. It gives you enough time to save your work and shut down your computer safely, without risking data loss or damage. A UPS also acts as a surge protector and regulates the voltage. You should get a UPS that matches your power needs and has enough outlets for your devices. You should also check the battery life and replace it when needed.

3 Save and back up your work

One of the best ways to protect your computer from power surges and outages is to save and back up your work frequently. This way, you can avoid losing important files or having to redo your tasks. You can save your work on your hard drive, an external drive, a cloud service, or a flash drive. You can also use a backup software that automatically copies your files to a secure location. You should also keep copies of your system files and settings, in case you need to restore your computer.

4 Update and scan your system

Power surges and outages can also affect your computer's performance and security. They can cause errors, crashes, or vulnerabilities in your system. To prevent these issues, you should update and scan your system regularly. Updating your system ensures that you have the latest patches, drivers, and software that fix bugs and improve stability. Scanning your system detects and removes any malware, viruses, or spyware that can harm your computer or steal your data.

5 Unplug your computer

If you know that a power surge or outage is likely to happen, such as during a storm, a blackout, or a scheduled maintenance, you should unplug your computer and other devices from the wall. This way, you can prevent any damage from electrical surges or fluctuations. You should also unplug any cables or cords that connect your computer to the internet, phone line, or other devices. This can protect your computer from lightning strikes or power surges that travel through these lines.

6 Check your computer

After a power surge or outage, you should check your computer and other devices for any signs of damage or malfunction. You should look for any burns, cracks, or smells on your hardware. You should also test your software, files, and settings for any errors, corruption, or changes. If you notice any problems, you should contact a professional or follow the troubleshooting steps for your computer. You should also review your warranty and insurance policies for any coverage or claims.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?