Computer maintenance checklist template

When you mark “Issue Found” on the checklist, document the specific problem in the comments section and assign responsibility for resolution. Prioritize issues based on their potential impact on operations—address security vulnerabilities immediately, while cosmetic issues might wait. Follow your organization’s IT support protocol for repairs or replacements, and always verify the fix with a follow-up inspection.

Review each section and determine which items apply to your specific hardware and software environment. Add tasks unique to your systems, like checking specialized equipment or industry-specific software. Consider your organization’s security requirements and compliance needs when modifying the security section. Save your customized version as a template and update it whenever you implement new technology or identify new maintenance needs.

Focus first on security-related tasks like antivirus updates and malware scans, as these protect against immediate threats. Next, address system updates that patch known vulnerabilities. Hardware safety checks that prevent physical damage should follow. If truly pressed for time, defer cosmetic cleaning and optimization tasks like defragmentation. Never skip the documentation step—knowing what was missed is crucial for planning follow-up maintenance.