So keep your apps in your Applications folder, and file your other stuff away into folders. Updating a system can easily be done by going to the Apple menu and choosing Software Update, where the system will check for and then install new versions of operating system software or Apple's supplied programs like iTunes, iPhoto, or iWork. To do this, first try running a general maintenance routine on your system to clear caches and other temporary items that if corrupted may lead to odd problems. Apple's power adapters may be subject to wear with use, or be replaced with newer options. For RAM considerations I've usually recommended people get the minimal from Apple and then upgrade at a later date to save money; however, for some of Apple's systems such as the MacBook Air and Retina MacBook Pro this is not possible, so purchasing the ones with the most built-in RAM is recommended. Luckily, most developers—Apple included—will usually rush to fix any issues with their latest software updates, so waiting a few days might help you avoid any issue altogether. Be aware of your touch 1 If your device isn’t eligible for credit, we’ll recycle it for free. Apple Trade In. Apple's glossy glass displays are decently protected from touching, but matte displays can easily be poked and damaged. For Mac Pro systems, you can easily remove the cover and use canned air to blow around the fans and heat sinks to clear any dust accumulation (do this outside, as billowing clouds of dust can be irritating to live with). Lastly, Apple's hardware test suite should be available to most Mac systems and can be used to test the system's RAM and internal sensors to see if a problem is occurring. I've often noticed people hammering on keys when typing, or mashing a key or two in frustration, and while the keyboard ought to be able to take such treatment, it can only lead to faster wear. 3 years of Apple-certified service and support coverage, 24/7 priority access to technical support, Get up to 2 incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months, 90 days of complimentary technical support, www.apple.com/legal/sales-support/applecare/applecareplus/, 24/7 priority access to Apple experts by chat or phone, Onsite repair for desktop computers: Request that a technician come to your work site, Included accessories such as the power adapter, Up to two incidents of accidental damage protection every 12 months, each subject to a service fee of $99 for screen damage or external enclosure damage, or $299 for other damage, plus applicable tax, Quick how-to questions about Apple-branded apps, such as Photos, iMovie, GarageBand, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, and pro apps such as Final Cut Pro X, Logic Pro X, and more, Connecting to printers and AirPort networks. If you travel with your system then consider using a case or cover that will help protect it, and also consider using a properly padded bag even if you use a case. While the older MagSafe connections should be available for a while, over time they will be harder to find. Over time and depending on how it's used a Mac can develop odd problems or two that can lead to slowdowns, crashes, hangs, and other odd behaviors that can be a real burden to deal with. Do you have any tips or suggestions on keeping your Mac running the longest? While the offerings for this are relatively limited and a touch expensive, if needed the option to do so is out there. When peripherals are attached, the ports can be subject to torquing that in extreme conditions or over time may result in it no longer working, not being able to hold the inserted connection firmly, becoming mangled, or even being subject to shorting out and frying a component of the motherboard. If the battery in your MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro is fully drained of power, the battery will put itself into a low power state to preserve its ability to charge in the future. The company obligated under AppleCare+ in the United States is AppleCare Service Company, Inc., an Arizona corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of Apple Inc., doing business in Texas as Apple CSC Inc. Purchase of the plan is not required to purchase the covered equipment. The eight tips presented above are simply among the most universal fixes and maintenance techniques that can take a slow, sluggish, and thoroughly bogged down machine and restore it to the zippy computer you once knew. Copyright © In order to keep your Mac best equipped to handle vulnerabilities and avoid bugs, updating your software frequently is a must.