Let's Shut Down Our System

Now for another analogy. Think of your computer as a running car on the interstate highway. Many of the inner workings of your car function without much help from you. You simply apply the brakes, gas, and control the steering wheel. What do you think would happen if you were going 75 miles per hour and suddenly shifted into reverse? How about violently ripping the key out of the ignition? Or how about opening the door and jumping out? All of these things would be a bad thing to both your car, and possibly your checkbook(mechanic and health bills). Your computer isn't much different. There are plenty of things that your system is constantly handling while you are using the computer. Shutting off the system improperly is a no-no.

You must make sure you use the proper shutdown procedure. Single left-click your start button. Select Shut Down the computer. (This may be under log off as on some operating systems) Click the yes button. On some machines you will see a message that tells you it is safe to turn off your computer. Some machines will automatically turn the machine off for you. Don't forget to turn off your speakers, monitor, printer, and anything else that doesn't need to be turned on 24-7.