Year-End Computer Cleanup: What You Should Do to Start the New Year Strong
If you're a Hybridge client, we already handle many of the yearly audits, security checks, and system optimizations for your work devices throughout the year. Our managed systems are monitored, updated, and tuned proactively so you don't have to worry about falling behind on maintenance.
However, for your personal computers and phones that are not managed by Hybridge, it's still important to give them a yearly review. A little cleanup now can go a long way toward making your devices faster, safer, and more organized going into the new year.
Below is a practical guide to help you tidy up, secure, and optimize your personal computer:
1. Declutter Your Storage
A messy computer slows you down. Start by:
- Clearing out your Downloads folder
- Deleting old installers, duplicate files, and unused documents
- Removing outdated screenshots and temporary files
- Organizing important files into clearly labeled folders
- Emptying your Trash/Recycle Bin to free real space
If you've accumulated a year's worth of digital clutter, this alone can noticeably improve performance.
2. Remove Unused Applications
Applications you no longer use can consume storage, run background processes, and create potential security risks.
Do a quick audit:
- Uninstall apps you haven't touched this year
- Remove tools you downloaded "just to try"
3. Apply System & Software Updates
Updates are critical for security and performance. Make sure you:
- Install the latest operating system updates (Windows Update or macOS Software Update). As always, make sure your data is backed up before installing major updates.
- Update your browsers, office apps, and commonly used tools
- Check for any available hardware driver updates (especially graphics, audio, and printers)
4. Strengthen Your Security
Even unmanaged computers need basic safeguards.
Do a security refresh:
- Ensure Filevault/BitLocker is enabled and make sure you have the key stored safely somewhere
- Run a full malware/security scan
- Review app permissions on your computer and phone
5. Clean Up Your Browser
Your browser sees the heaviest daily use, so:
- Clear cache, cookies, and site data – please note, clearing cookies will remove website login and personalized settings.
- Delete old or unused bookmarks
- Remove outdated browser extensions
- Sign out of sessions you don't recognize
6. Tidy Up Your Email & Cloud Storage
Email and cloud clutter affects both storage and productivity.
- Delete large attachments or archive old threads
- Empty your spam/junk folder
- Review and cancel unused subscriptions
- Organize cloud folders and delete old versions of files
7. Back Up Important Data
Prepare for the unexpected:
- Create a fresh full-system backup
- Ensure Google Drive/OneDrive/iCloud/ or other cloud backups are working so all the data on your computers and phones is backed up into at least one secure cloud account or app
- Test that you can restore a file (many people discover backups are broken only when they need them)
- Consider storing key documents in two places
8. Physically Clean Your Computer
A clean computer runs cooler and lasts longer.
- Gently wipe the screen, keyboard, and chassis
- Use compressed air to remove dust from vents
- Clean peripherals like your mouse, trackpad, and external drives
- Check cables and replace damaged ones
9. Review Startup & Background Apps
Too many auto-starting apps slow boot and reduce performance.
- Remove unnecessary startup programs
- Turn off apps that run in the background unnecessarily
- Review your notification and permission settings
Share this blog:
