A personal computer or laptop can work without turning off for a long time. Ordinary users who are not versed in electronics often ask how often you need to restart the computer and whether there is any benefit from this. In fact, this is a very important action, without which a system failure can occur.

Why computers need a reboot

The main components of any PC are a hard disk (hard drive), random access memory (RAM) and an operating system (Windows, Linux, etc.).

All files are stored on the hard disk, the RAM processes all processes occurring in real time, and the operating system is the main connecting link between them. The more actions are performed on the device, the more RAM is used - it stores all the processed information.

RAM has a limited amount. Absolutely every program, whether it is Skype or a window with e-mail, takes a certain amount of memory.

The simultaneous launch of several programs and a large number of windows in the browser requires a lot of resources from the OP. When the amount of information begins to fill up RAM, computer performance is significantly reduced. He begins to "hang", "slow down", give errors. In a word - the system crashes.

In the event of a serious failure, important files may be lost or necessary programs “fly off”.

Usually, computer technicians, analyzing a breakdown, first reboot the device to see how it will work after.

When rebooting, all processes are reset and RAM is cleared. Therefore, periodically turning off the computer is simply necessary to maintain its "health".

How to restart your computer properly

You can perform a hard reset - unplug the cord from the outlet. Some do so. But this is a very wrong method that should be avoided.

With a sharp forced reboot, the system will not be able to save active data and you can lose some important files. This action harms the hard drive. In addition, when you turn on after a hard reboot, the OS will load for a long time, putting itself in order.

The most correct way is to reboot the machine through a special command located in the Start menu. It is usually located in the lower left corner of the screen. By clicking on it you can see the command line "Shutdown" below. Further, on the arrow, you can select “Shutdown” or “Restart”.

When the “Restart” command is activated, the computer will turn off and turn on again on its own. Having chosen the “Shutdown” command, it is necessary to turn on the machine manually.

There is also a command method for shutting down or rebooting:

  • Press the keys Ctrl + Alt + Delete simultaneously and select the desired action in the list.
  • Press the ALT + F4 command and also select the desired action.

Remember to save all files and close programs before shutting down. If this is not done, the operating system will notify you of the need to close all folders, programs, browser windows.

If there is no action on your part, she will terminate the processes herself, but may not save some files.

How often should I reboot

Ideally, you need to turn off the computer every day. This is useful for the operating system - it will not clutter up and slow down the operation of all processes.

It is recommended to reboot if suddenly the system starts to “hang”. Sometimes the computer starts to shut itself down. This is a serious reason to contact the workshop and show it to a specialist.

But keep in mind that rebooting the PC does not eliminate malware, viruses, hard disk crashes, and many other problems that can occur on any machine. Restarting is a feature that allows you to clean up RAM and facilitate the operation of the operating system.