Leave computer on or always turn it off? (laptop, desktop, hard drive)

[xraychick01]

I have a several years old desktop computer. I only really use it when I need to print something as it's connected to the printer. I also have pictures and music stored on a second hard drive on that computer. My question is is it better to shut it down when I don't use it or just leave it up and running?

[jaypee]

How often do you use it?

[NJBest]

Shut it down or at least put it in hibernation or sleep . This goes without saying, but your make sure your pictures and music are backed up.

[xraychick01]

Originally Posted by jaypee

How often do you use it?

Once every few weeks, if I had to guess. Not very often.

[David223]

Shut it down.

[VeeGer]

Since you don't use it much it's better to turn it off after each use.

I assume you're not using the net so I guess you're not worried about keeping your OS updated.

[xraychick01]

Originally Posted by VeeGer

Since you don't use it much it's better to turn it off after each use.

I assume you're not using the net so I guess you're not worried about keeping your OS updated.

I have a laptop that I use all the time. No, I'm not really worried about the OS on the old computer. It still gets around just fine when I do happen to get online.

[VeeGer]

So you do get online sometimes then keep your anti-virus proggie updated.

[xraychick01]

Originally Posted by VeeGer

So you do get online sometimes then keep your anti-virus proggie updated.

I do keep that up to date.

[Peregrine]

If she has a quality program there's no need to turn it on just to update your virus software.
It will update on it's own when she does turn it on.