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How to Know When to Replace Your Computer

April 19, 2021 By TMC2

Are you relying on outdated technology? Aren’t sure when to buy new devices?
Follow this guide to replace your computer at the right time before it crashes.

Windows Computers

Windows computer pc when to replace

The average usable lifespan of a Windows computer is about 5 years. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why.

Hard drives wear out.
The hard drive is the most fragile part in a computer and is also running constantly. Over time, the speed of the drive will slow down and every task on the computer gets slower. For example, turning it off and on. You may notice other strange behavior as the drive wears out. Because all your personal data is stored here, you don’t want to wait until it crashes to replace the computer

You can’t run the latest version of Windows.
The hardware in an older computer will struggle to run Windows 10 and that is if its compatible at all. Running an outdated, unsupported version of Windows, like Windows 7, is dangerous because you are no longer receiving security updates.

Programs become too robust.
Software is constantly being updated and with those updates come new features that require more and more powerful hardware. If you’re avoiding updates because you’re afraid it’ll slow down your computer, it may be time for a new computer. You need to be able to keep your programs up to date to stay secure.

Laptop hinges break.
Imagine, over years of use, how many times you open and close your laptop lid. Eventually the plastic holding the screws of one or both hinges often breaks. As a result this problem will get worse over time and the hinges will become looser and more unstable.

Apple Macs

Apple mac when to replace

The average usable lifespan of an Apple mac is about 8 years.

Hard drives wear out.
The hard drive is the most fragile part in a computer and is also running constantly. Over time, the speed of the drive will slow down and every task on the computer gets slower, including turning it off and on. You may notice other strange behavior as the drive wears out. Because all your personal data is stored here, you don’t want to wait until it crashes to replace the computer.

You use it for high intensity tasks.
Any kind of graphic design, professional photography or video editing is going to require more powerful hardware. As a result, you’ll need to regularly replace your computer to make sure it can keep up with the demanding applications commonly used for these tasks.

You’re constantly running out of free space.
The storage on some mac models can be upgraded and increased however some models cannot. If you have a model that can’t be upgraded and you’re always running out of space, the best solution is to replace the computer. Do you need help determining which model you have? Contact us.

You can’t install the latest OS.
Each year in the fall, Apple releases a new version of MacOS. If your mac is not capable of running the latest OS, its becoming obsolete. You will likely continue to get security updates for another year or two but after that it will no longer be secure to use on the internet.

We offer new computer setup services for both pcs and macs.
Give us a call today at 630-942-8622 or contact us here.

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TMC2 exists because of a need for trusted tech support. We have an established reputation as not just experienced IT and network consultants and computer repair specialists, but also as technology translators who are heavily invested in the relationships we have with our clients.

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Thom and Sue Martin founded TMC2 in 2006 after years in the corporate world. As their second and third careers, and a family deeply embedded in their local community, it was imperative that their business reflected their values and ethics.
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Address: 450 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Phone: 630.942.8622

We proudly serve the following areas: Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Lombard, Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Naperville, Downers Grove, Schaumburg, Chicago, and the surrounding communities.

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