So you’ve just unboxed your brand new laptop — what do you do next? Before you start using it to surf the internet or finish your tasks for the day, take these steps to optimize its performance and ensure it meets your needs.
1. Update your laptop’s operating system
One of the first things you should do before using your laptop is to update its operating system (OS). Assuming you did not purchase the laptop when it was first released, it will still be running an older OS. Because important patches and fixes are released with each new update, you must install the latest ones to ensure your laptop doesn’t have vulnerabilities that malicious third parties can exploit.

Are you still hanging on to your old work computers since they “still work fine”? While they may still help you get the job done, their outdated firmware can make you vulnerable to security risks that can lead to major problems.
What is firmware?
Firmware is a basic type of software that is embedded into every piece of hardware.

As cybersecurity incidents become more sophisticated, frequent, and intelligent, experts predict that the global market for cybersecurity products in 2020 will exceed that of last year. In fact, your company might be one of the thousands of businesses looking to purchase cybersecurity software.

Did you just get the newest MacBook Pro? Or the Lenovo Yoga 920? Either would be very exciting, but before you start showing off your new purchase, there are five steps you should take to make your laptop experience even more enjoyable and long-lasting.

Are you still using that old computer that is not-so gracefully aging and devaluing? Maybe you are running important programs on older machines with old operating systems since they “still work fine.” While it might still help you get the job done, there may be hidden security risks that can lead to major problems later on.

The growing market for cybersecurity products is a sign that businesses are taking the issue seriously. But before your company jumps into investing in any product, ask yourself if it’s really necessary. Find out how you can make the most out of cybersecurity products by conducting a risk assessment.

Laptops may not be the most powerful computers, but the benefits they provide are undisputable. For one thing, they deliver a similar user experience to your huge desktop PC, but much more conveniently and affordably. But before you reap their many benefits, learn five precautionary steps you should take before using them.