PC Maintenance, Security & Best Practices

western

This article applies to CCE staff in the Western NY region.

Your computer is one of your most important work tools.

Simple day‑to‑day habits—like restarting your PC properly, keeping it secure, and handling data responsibly—can prevent issues, reduce downtime, and protect both your work and the organization’s information.

PC Maintenance, Security & Best Practices Webinar (3/23/2021) - Recording (50 min) | Presentation (pptx)

Training Sections

NOTE: We are in the process of updating the above training. New, shorter sections will be added below as they are completed and will be available immediately to all staff.
Until the updated training is finalized, new staff should continue to complete the existing recorded training linked above.

This training is divided into short sections that you can review at your own pace and reference specific topics later as needed.

Whether you’re requesting IT support, adjusting Windows 11 settings, cleaning your device, or safeguarding confidential data, these quick tips will help you keep your computer running securely and reliably.

▶ Getting Started with IT Support & Technology

Getting Started with IT Support & Technology

Before reviewing the PC maintenance and security best practices below, we recommend taking a moment to review the Western – Information Technology Orientation Knowledge Base (KB) article.

The IT Orientation provides an overview of WSBN Regional IT Support, including how to get help, important first steps, accessing network resources, security expectations, email and file storage, software, backups, and working remotely.

Please review the IT Orientation article here: Western - Information Technology Orientation

Once you’re familiar with our IT support and technology basics, continue below for everyday best practices to help keep your computer secure, reliable, and in good working condition.

▶ Windows Updates & Restarting Your Computer

Windows Updates & Restarting Your Computer

Keeping Windows up to date—and restarting your computer regularly—is one of the simplest ways to prevent issues and maintain security and performance. Many updates, security patches, and system improvements are not fully applied until your computer is restarted.

Routine restarts help:

Apply Windows and security updates correctly
Resolve minor performance or application issues
Keep your system running reliably and securely

If you are unfamiliar with Windows 11 features or update behavior, review the Windows 11 Training & Features KB article for additional guidance.

Shut Down vs. Restart (Windows 11)

A Restart fully refreshes Windows and applies updates, while Shut Down may not. For regular maintenance or troubleshooting, restarting while plugged into power is strongly encouraged.

▶ Watch: Shut Down vs. Restart (36 seconds)

Resources

NetID management - https://netid.cornell.edu
Two-step authentication and device management - https://two-step.netid.cornell.edu
Confidential Data & Spirion
Cornell Secure File Transfer - https://sft.cornell.edu
CCE KB article: Cleaning and disinfecting devices

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