Every tech support task you should do for your family

How to save money, prevent hacks and make everything work smoothly.

Like getting your teeth cleaned or emptying the gutters, there are a number of digital maintenance tasks everyone should see to once or twice a year.

• Update all the software.
• Make sure contact emails are up-to-date.
• Turn on two-factor authentication.
• Set up a password system.
• See if the storage is full.
• Set up automatic backups. (In my opinion, this should be the very first priority.)
• Adjust accessibility features.
• Scan for any malware or adware.
• Cancel unwanted subscriptions.
• Organize cable and streaming services.
• Check the cable, Internet and phone bill.
• Add legacy contacts.
• Lock down all the privacy settings.
• Set up computers so you can help remotely.
• Find local tech support.
• Clear out old unwanted tech.
• Set up any holiday tech gifts.
• Review common scams.

Each of these tips has an explanation of why it’s important and how to do it. Yes, it’s a lot of items, but doing as many as you can will help, and you can do (for example) one item a week. 1,600 words: https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/12/20/tech-support-checklist/.