One significant error that many users commit with their computers may inadvertently jeopardize their files.
While individuals are generally cognizant of the necessity for digital security when utilizing devices such as computers and laptops, including the utilization of antivirus software and the avoidance of dubious links in emails, there exists a critical oversight that transcends external threats like hackers and scammers.
A tech specialist has emphasized on social media that failing to properly shut down your computer can potentially corrupt your files. This malfunction does not involve hackers gaining access to your data; rather, it results in your inability to retrieve important information stored on your device.
A TikTok user, Madelyn, elucidated that most individuals do not execute the shutdown process correctly on their computers and laptops. She highlighted that while the current system may expedite loading times, it may culminate in “potential file system corruption.”
For users operating on Windows 8, 10, or 11, it is likely that a feature known as “Fast Startup” is activated by default to enhance booting speed.
Nevertheless, keeping this feature enabled can adversely impact various components of your computer, preventing them from functioning optimally over time. This occurs due to the fact that your PC does not undergo a complete shutdown, depriving it of necessary rest and reset.
According to Madelyn, “Since the introduction of Windows 8, Microsoft has incorporated a Fast Startup setting, which is enabled by default. Essentially, it mimics sleep mode while your computer appears to shut down, meaning that even after you instruct your PC to shut down, it remains in a semi-active state.”
She went on to explain, “The feature accelerates boot times post-shutdown by preserving the Windows kernel and drivers in a hibernation file rather than fully terminating all processes. When you power your PC back on, it simply restores the saved state, circumventing the usual hardware initialization and reloading.”
While Fast Startup may be advantageous for those who prioritize faster boot times and do not engage in demanding activities, users involved in gaming or intensive tasks like photo or video editing are better served by performing a complete shutdown to safeguard their data and enhance the longevity of their PCs.
Disabling Fast Startup
Fast Startup is a feature specific to Microsoft, applicable solely to Windows PCs or laptops.
To disable Fast Startup, initiate by accessing your Control Panel. You can locate it by clicking on the search bar adjacent to the Windows icon at the screen’s bottom and typing “Control Panel.” Select the program once it appears to launch it.
Next, navigate to the Hardware and Sound section, and under the Power Options header, select “Change what the power buttons do.”
You will likely observe several greyed-out options on this screen. At the top, look for “Change settings that are currently unavailable” and click it to enable those options.
After gaining access, uncheck the box labeled “Turn on Fast Startup,” and remember to save your modifications before closing the application.
Source link: Express.co.uk.
