“Can I get one more year out of this computer?” That’s a question people often find themselves asking when working on a computer that’s past its prime.
The price tag of purchasing a new system can cause people to hang onto a PC longer than they should. Some users are just really comfortable with their device after using it for years and don’t like the thought of having to change to a new one and move all their data.
We tend to get very attached to our PCs for a variety of reasons, but hanging onto them longer than you should instead of upgrading to a new computer, could end up causing you multiple problems.
How long should a computer last?
The usable lifespan of a computer can vary according to model and the types of components used inside, but on average it’s between three to five years.
Business computers made with higher quality components will typically outlast consumer PCs, which are not designed for as much continuous use. A budget PC bought during a Black Friday sale will most likely wear out closer to the 3-year mark.
The standard lifespan of a computer is 3 to 5 years.
As much as you may want to keep using a computer as long as it’s “usable,” it could end up costing you in a number of ways rather than saving you money.
Why You Don’t Want to Keep that PC Past Its Usable Life
Trying to eke out more lifespan than your PC was designed for can end up biting you in the back. Whether you use your computer for home or business use, waiting until it fails before upgrading is just not a good idea. Here are some of the reasons why.
Risk of a Data Breach
Older computers will most likely be using older operating systems and may not have the ability to upgrade. This leaves you at risk of a data breach once support ends for that operating system.
For example, anyone running Windows 7 just lost security update support as of January 14, 2020. That means their OS will no longer receive updates that address found security vulnerabilities, leaving them wide open for hackers.
60% of data breaches are due to unpatched system vulnerabilities.
Hardware Incompatibility
The longer you run an older system, the more you’ll find problems when you try to install drivers for newer hardware, like printers, projectors, or web cams. With the speed that technology evolves, new capabilities are built into new equipment that often older systems don’t have the ability to support.
Loss of Software Functionality
Software manufacturers are designing their updates for current and upcoming operating systems, not older ones. For example, if you’re running an iMac from 2011 on High Sierra, then you most likely got a nasty surprise when you tried to update to the new version of Pages and Numbers in the form of a “no longer supported on this system” message.
The longer you continue to use a computer past its prime, the more you’ll be left behind when it comes to software upgrades and new features.
Hard Drive Crash
The older a computer gets, the more chance of a hard drive crash, and when that happens, you could potentially lose all your data and programs that are stored on that hard drive. Plus, you have few options once a crash happens, and the safest is to buy a new computer, but you’ll be purchasing it in an “emergency situation” rather than having time to shop and budget for it.
Slow Down and Crashes
As computers get older, they often get slower due to a number of reasons. They also may not have the resources to handle newer programs or websites laden with scripts and video very well.
That means frustrating slow downs and potential crashes that interrupt your work and tank your productivity.
Where Can I Find a Great New Computer?
If you know it’s time to upgrade, but you’re not sure where to look or what type of specs you need, Pro Tech Guy can help!
We offer a number of affordable and quality PC options by Lenovo. Whether you’re looking for a desktop or laptop, or for a home computer, business workstation, or gaming rig, we can help you find the perfect match for your needs and your budget.
And all our great Lenovo computers come with a 3-year warranty, so you know you’re protected.
Computer Issue? Let Pro Tech Guy Be Your “Go To!”
Whether you’re looking for a great deal on a new computer or need help maintaining and older one, Pro Tech Guy’s experts are a resource you can come to for any and all computer needs.
Ask us about our Lenovo computer options! Call 508-364-8189 or reach us online.