• Meet Our Team
  • Advertise on SCDN
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Contact Us
Friday, July 25
Scioto County Daily News
  • Login
  • Register
Subscribe For $1/week
  • Public Safety

    Bridge Fight Turns into Mental Health Crisis—Quick Action by Officers Gets Man Help

    BURGLAR BUSTED: WILD FOOT CHASE-SUSPECT @ GUNPOINT 

    PPD Night

    Midnight Mayhem: Car Crashes into Power Poles, Knocks Out Lights from Clay to Grandview 

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/24/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    SCDN File Photo

    Teen’s Tall Tale Unravels: Bizarre 911 Call Leads Deputies to Franklin Furnace 

    Good Samaritan 2

    Good Neighbor Nabs Wanted Man: Deputies Bust Suspicious Visitor at Vacant Home 

    Man Missing for 24 Hours Found on Stranger’s Porch

    DRUNK SON FIRES GUN AT DAD IN LATE-NIGHT DOMESTIC MELTDOWN  

    “Someone Out There Got Away With It” 

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/23/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    Sheriff night 1

    Stranger on the Porch: Midnight Door Jiggle Lands Minford Woman in Jail 

    body found

    Double Tragedy Strikes Portsmouth as Two Found Dead Just Hours Apart 

    Portsmouth Boy Punches Dog In Stomach

    🐾 DOG DRAMA AT THE POUND! 

    chase police chase

    High-Speed Chase Ends in the Woods — Suspect Now Tied to Another Stolen Car at Speedway 

    Ryan Joseph Miller

    “Didn’t Take the Hint!” – Man Busted After Allegedly Trying to Kick In Door in South Webster 

    Elder Safety

    🚨 “Mom Needs Protection” — West Portsmouth Man Busted for Violating Protective Order Meant to Shield Elderly Mother 

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/22/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    super mom

    The Gallia Street Incident — One Mom’s Love Shines Through 

    🚨 ‘She Hits Us With Sticks’ — Brave Girls Speak Out About Alleged Abuse 

    Forgotten Firepower: Loaded Gun Left in Rental Car Prompts Police Response 

  • Lawrence County
  • Politics

    🌿 Bamboo Gets Fast-Tracked at City Hall — But the Homeless Crisis? Still Stuck in Neutral 

    Who Will Carry Cathy’s Torch? GOP to Choose Coleman’s Replacement July 29 

    Cathy Coleman

    Commissioners Back Senior Housing Project Championed by Late Commissioner Cathy Coleman 

    “Bad and Quirky” Lucasville House Targeted for Demolition as County Cracks Down on Blighted Properties 

    ‘A Great Addition to Heaven’: Commissioners Honor Cathy Coleman, Reflect on Her Legacy and Who Might Carry It Forward 

    Cathy Coleman

    Scioto County Mourns Commissioner Cathy Coleman 

    🚨TRIAL TWIST! Horton Corruption Case on Ice—For Now 

    Cathy Coleman

    Remembering Scioto County Commissioner Cathy Coleman

    somc 2

    🏥 Scioto County Approves Hospital Tax to Keep Medicaid Dollars Local 

    No Kings

    Scioto Dems Snort at “Well-Funded” No Kings Protest Claim

    Cathy Coleman

    Cathy Coleman Still Fighting: Family Shuts Down Hospice Rumors, Says Recovery Still Underway

    County May Tap Opioid Settlement Funds to Finish MARCS Tower Project 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘Small Steps, Big Faith’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Edges Closer to Recovery 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘Praise God!’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Shows Remarkable Progress After Harrowing Weeks

    Cathy Coleman

    Cautious Hope and Harsh Realities: New Details Emerge on Commissioner Cathy Coleman’s Condition 

    Scioto County Commissioners Cancel This Week’s Meeting 

    Robert Horton

    Sudden Twist: Horton Court Dates Scrapped Ahead of Trial 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘A Sign of Hope’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Shows Small Improvements Amid Ongoing Critical Condition 

    Recorder Gary Jenkins

    Scioto County Recorder Gary Jenkins Unveils New Office Website 

    Staggering 236 Recovery Houses in Area — and the Fight for Reform Faces Pushback 

  • Feel Good
    A family of two parents and a young boy and girl are playing laser tag with vests and laser blasters in an arena.

    What Activities To Offer at a Family Fun Center

    Shawnee State University SSU

    Shawnee State University Joins New Athletic Conference, Adds Football to Lineup 

    BREAKING: Commissioners Make Shocking Decision—Halloween to Remain on Halloween 

    Escape to the Hills: A Summer Reading List Set in Appalachia 

    Scioto County Champs: Lady Trojans and Word Wizards Bring Home the Gold 

    “I Held Those Keys Tight” — One Man’s Harrowing Journey from Addiction to Hope 

    Three girls in quinceañera dresses stand beside one another. The one in middle has a gold dress while the other two wear pink.

    Tips for Selecting the Color of a Quinceañera Dress

    The Day the Streak Ended: Lakers’ 1987 Record Broken

    An angler standing at the edge of a lake just after sunset with three fishing rods resting on the ground next to him.

    Night Fishing: Who Is It for and How Do You Start?

    good cops

    Cops Rescue Lost Man 

    good cops

    Kid Misses Bus, Deputy to the Rescue 

    A group of people stands outside with their arms in the air. They hold their hands together, making a pyramid shape.

    Hidden Gems: Community Strategies for Mental Wellness

    good cops

    Man Says He’s Trapped in Armory 

    Good Samaritan 2

    Good Neighbor and Officer to the Rescue 

    Portsmouth Flood Wall Stars

    Meet the New Flood Wall Stars! 

    A bearded man is sitting on the floor and comforting his dog in a wheelchair. The dog has his ears pinned back.

    Training Tips To Help Your Dog Get Used to Their Wheelchair

    U.S. housing market

    Tips for Making Your New House Feel Like a Home

    The Best Freshwater Fish To Catch This Summer

    The Best Freshwater Fish To Catch This Summer

    A man approaching the bowling lane with a red bowling ball as his three friends in the background cheer him on.

    How Bowling Can Improve Your Mental Health

    good cops

    Lost Kid Calls Cops for Help 

  • Obituaries
    James L. Slone, 86, of South Webster

    James L. Slone, 86 of South Webster

    Gary Lee Meade,70 of West Portsmouth

    Lilly Ann Elliott

    Lilly Ann Elliott, 53 of Portsmouth

    James D. Hannah

    James D. Hannah, 60 of Greenup

    obit-infant-small

    Bristol Rafalowski, 3, of Wheelersburg

    Walter Logan

    Walter Logan 56 of Portsmouth

    Paul H. Parker

    Paul H. Parker 85 of Portsmouth

    Ralph Burton Speck

    Ralph Burton Speck, 90 of West Portsmouth

    Barbara Williams

    Betty Lou Little Mullins, 91 of Franklin Furnace

    Shirley Ann Wheeler

    Shirley Ann Wheeler, 88, of Minford

    Betty Lou Ratliff

    Betty Lou Ratliff, 82 of South Shore

    Katherine Kay Bates

    Katherine Kay Bates, 76, formerly of Sciotoville

    Carl D. Cook

    Carl D. “Pork” Cook, 64 of South Webster

    Rachele Lynne McLaughlin, 44 of Minford

    Carol Lorraine Schmid

    Carol Lorraine (Meenach) Schmid 88 of Wheelersburg

    Darrell Kevin Lore

    Darrell Kevin Lore, age 69 of Portsmouth

    Helen Waughtel

    Helen F. Waughtel, 84 of Portsmouth

    Victoria Jane Lucas

    Victoria Jane Lucas, 73 of Portsmouth

    Wayne Pace

    Wayne Franklin Pace, 43 of Wheelersburg

    Yani Marcellus White

    Yani Marcellus White, 28 of Portsmouth

  • More News
    • All News
    • Arts & Entertainment
    • Education
    • Economy
    • Food & Drinks
    • Local Business
    • National
    • Opinion
    • Regional
    • Strange But True
    • Trending
No Result
View All Result
Scioto County Daily News
No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Register
Scioto County Daily News
No Result
View All Result

8 Unusual Ways to Make Your Computer Work Better (That You Haven’t Tried Yet) 

Cyn Mackley by Cyn Mackley
4 months ago
in Education
Make Your Computer Work Better
ShareTweetEmail

So, your computer is slow, glitchy, or acting like it just got out of bed after a two-hour nap. You’ve probably tried the usual tricks—clearing cookies, updating software, or swearing at the screen. But there are some lesser-known, off-the-wall ways to help your computer work better and you work happier. Give these unusual tips a try! 

Give It a Literal Breather (Keep Your Computer Cool) 

Computers and laptops have an ongoing war with heat, and if you ignore it, your machine’s performance will melt faster than an ice cube on a summer sidewalk. Overheating can cause slow performance, crashes, or even long-term damage to your device. 

Start by inspecting your device’s fans and vents. Are they covered in dust? That’s like wrapping your computer in a wool blanket—it’s suffocating. Use a can of compressed air (available online or at any electronics store) to blow dust out of vents, or carefully vacuum around them with a small nozzle. 

RELATED POSTS

Bridge Fight Turns into Mental Health Crisis—Quick Action by Officers Gets Man Help

Where’s the $34M for the Riverfront Project? Here’s What We Found Out 

Teen Hero Gunned Down Defending His Mother: Suspect an Illegal Immigrant with ICE Detainer 

If you use a laptop, invest in a cooling pad. These nifty gadgets not only prop your laptop up for better airflow but also come with built-in fans to keep temperatures low. 

For desktops, ensure there’s enough space around your tower for airflow. Don’t shove it into a corner or cabinet where it can’t “breathe.” Keeping your workspace cool also helps—don’t work in direct sunlight or overly warm rooms. 

Bonus tip: Check your device’s temperature with free software like HWMonitor (for Windows) or Macs Fan Control. If you see dangerously high temps, it’s time to act fast to save your device from a fiery end. 

Move to a “Magic Spot” in Your Home (Wi-Fi Sweet Spot) 

Not all spots in your home are created equal when it comes to Wi-Fi. If your computer is in a dead zone, you’re fighting an uphill battle for fast internet. 

Find your router’s sweet spot by moving closer to it. For best results, place your router centrally in your home, elevated on a shelf or table, and free from obstructions like walls, furniture, or appliances. 

If moving closer isn’t an option, consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network. These gadgets amplify your Wi-Fi signal to cover hard-to-reach areas. For something more immediate, use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to the router. It’s old-school but still the gold standard for speed and stability. 

Finally, check for interference. Wi-Fi signals can be disrupted by other electronics—microwaves, baby monitors, and even fish tanks (yes, really). Keep your router away from these troublemakers for the smoothest connection possible. 

Treat Your Mouse and Keyboard Like Royalty (Upgrade Your Peripherals) 

Your keyboard and mouse are like the tires on a car—they’re what you rely on to keep things moving. If you’re still using the cheap, clunky keyboard that came with your computer, it’s time to upgrade to something ergonomic. 

Ergonomic keyboards are designed to reduce strain on your wrists and hands, making typing more comfortable, especially if you spend hours at your computer. Split keyboards, curved layouts, and soft wrist rests can feel odd at first but do wonders for preventing carpal tunnel syndrome. 

For your mouse, a vertical model might look strange, but it keeps your wrist in a natural position and reduces strain. Trackball mice are another great option for those who want precise control with minimal hand movement. Gamers or creative professionals might want to invest in high-precision mice with customizable buttons. 

Think of it as self-care for your hands. You’re not just upgrading your computer setup; you’re investing in your long-term comfort. 

Restart Your Computer… on Schedule 

Restarting your computer isn’t just a way to fix glitches—it’s like giving your device a spa day. When you restart, your computer clears out temporary files, refreshes its memory (RAM), and stops any processes that might be hogging resources. 

But here’s the thing: most people don’t restart often enough. If you’re guilty of letting your computer run for weeks without a reboot, you’re basically asking it to survive on caffeine and willpower. 

Set a restart routine. For example, Sunday evenings could be your dedicated “reboot and refresh” time. It takes just a few minutes and can prevent performance hiccups, random freezes, or that infamous blue screen of death. 

Pro tip: If you’re constantly running software updates, those updates often take effect only after a restart. Make restarting a habit, and you’ll notice fewer problems and better performance. 

Turn Off Visual Effects (Save Your Computer’s Energy) 

Your computer’s operating system wants to impress you with fancy animations, fading windows, and dynamic backgrounds. Sure, they look cool, but they’re also a drain on your system’s resources, especially if you’re using an older machine. 

Disabling these visual effects is like switching from heels to sneakers—it’s not as glamorous, but it gets the job done. 

  • On Windows: Go to Settings > System > About > Advanced System Settings > Performance. Choose “Adjust for best performance,” and Windows will disable unnecessary animations. 
  • On Mac: Go to System Settings > Accessibility > Display, and turn on “Reduce Motion.” 

Your screen might lose some of its pizzazz, but your computer will thank you with faster performance and fewer hiccups. 

Use Weird Background Noise to Focus 

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your computer—it’s your brain. If you’re easily distracted or feeling sluggish, a little background noise can boost your focus. Enter the world of “brown noise” and ambient sounds. 

Brown noise is a deeper, less harsh version of white noise. Think of it like a soothing hum, similar to ocean waves or distant thunder. It’s perfect for drowning out distracting sounds like barking dogs, noisy neighbors, or your own thoughts about what’s for dinner. 

Apps like Noisli or websites like myNoise.net offer customizable ambient sounds. You can create your own mix of rain, wind, and even café chatter for a more immersive experience. Bonus: it pairs surprisingly well with a hot beverage. 

Clean Your Monitor (See the World Clearly) 

If your screen is covered in fingerprints, dust, or mystery smudges, it’s time for a cleaning session. A dirty screen doesn’t just look bad; it can strain your eyes as you squint to see through the grime. 

Here’s how to clean your monitor safely: 

  1. Turn off your screen and let it cool down. 
  1. Use a microfiber cloth (avoid paper towels or regular rags—they’ll scratch the surface). 
  1. Dampen the cloth with water or a 50/50 mix of water and isopropyl alcohol. 
  1. Gently wipe in small circles, focusing on smudges. 

Your screen will look brighter and clearer instantly. Plus, you’ll feel oddly accomplished—it’s like giving your computer a mini makeover. 

Kick Out Resource Hogs (Stop the Sneaky Apps) 

Ever wonder why your computer feels slow even when you’re only using one or two programs? Background apps could be the culprits, quietly draining your system’s resources like freeloaders. 

Find the guilty parties using Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac). Look for apps that are eating up CPU, memory, or disk space. Do you really need Spotify running in the background when you’re not using it? 

Please Support This Local Business

Once you’ve identified resource hogs, close unnecessary programs and disable them from starting up automatically. On Windows, you can manage startup programs via Task Manager > Startup. On Mac, go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items. 

Freeing up resources is like decluttering your home—it gives your computer more room to breathe and keeps things running smoothly. 

And there you have it—eight quirky yet effective ways to make your computer work better. Try these tips, and your computer might just start behaving like a well-oiled machine instead of a rebellious teenager. 

Tags: dogsNewsletterprofessionals
Please Support This Local Business

TRENDING NOW

SCDN File Photo

Poolside Tragedy in Wheelersburg: Toddler Rushed to Hospital  

July 19, 2025
Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 07/18/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

July 18, 2025

Mayor Call Cops on Fired Police Chief After Missed Deadline

July 19, 2025

Rachele Lynne McLaughlin, 44 of Minford

July 19, 2025
Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 07/17/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

July 17, 2025

ABOUT US

We are a grassroots team of local journalists on a mission to give our community up-to-the-second news and events for Southern Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Western West Virginia. We believe progress inspires change and we believe our reporting has become the front-lines of Portsmouth, Ohio's comeback.

CATEGORIES

  • Arts & Entertainment
  • Casino
  • Economy
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • Food & Drink
  • Local Business
  • National
  • Obituaries
  • Ohio
  • Opinion
  • Politics
  • Public Safety
  • Regional
  • Strange But True
  • Video

AREAS SERVED

  • Portsmouth
  • Wheelersburg
  • Minford
  • Waverly
  • Friendship
  • Ironton
  • West Union
  • Piketon
  • Coal Grove
  • South Point
  • Vanceburg
  • Grayson
  • South Shore
  • Greenup
  • Raceland
  • Ashland

SITE SEARCH

No Result
View All Result
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Sign Up
  • Home
  • Trending
  • Public Safety
  • Lawrence County
  • Obituaries
  • Politics
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • All News
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Team
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise on SCDN
  • Legal
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password? Sign Up

Create New Account!

Fill the forms below to register

All fields are required. Log In

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Sign Up
  • Home
  • Trending
  • Public Safety
  • Lawrence County
  • Obituaries
  • Politics
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • All News
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Team
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise on SCDN
  • Legal
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.