Q: Is it better to leave my computer on all the time or should I shut it down every time I am finished using it?

A: In the past I would have answered this question a little different. When I started working on computers, it was suggested by many Information Technology (IT) professionals to [...]]]> #1.

Q: Is it better to leave my computer on all the time or should I shut it down every time I am finished using it?

A: In the past I would have answered this question a little different. When I started working on computers, it was suggested by many Information Technology (IT) professionals to turn the power off to your PC when not in use for a few hours. Most reasons given then have now been proven to be based on myth more that factual evidence. Some professionals would say leaving your computer on will burn out the motherboard or turning your computer on & off will fry hard drive. Hardware and software has progressed greatly over the past few years and the worries of the past are no longer valid.

Now on to a logical reason.

If you enable Microsoft’s “hibernate” mode, you save as much energy as if it were unplugged. Since we are all becoming more energy conscience it is best to hibernate (Windows XP, ME & 2000) after you’ve finished using your PC. Windows 7 uses a two step process sleep mode and then hibernate mode.

Windows sleep and hibernate modes have both proven to be problematic so be careful when using them. The best way to avoid issues with these would be to close any documents that you are working on and save them before letting your workstation go into sleep or hibernate mode.