The Wiz Newsletter

By Tim Santo | The Computer Wizard

June 2026

Do NOT use the power button to turn OFF your computer.

The power button is used ONLY to turn on your computer.  Using the power button to turn off your computer or unplugging it damages it every time.  When I do a tune-up, I can see the damage when I test the hard drive’s health.  In short, your computer is dying an accelerated death due to improper shutdowns.

Here are proper ways to power off a Windows-based computer:

  • If I configured your computer, left-click the 4 squares in the lower-left corner of your screen.  Look for a red “Shut Down” icon in the top half of the screen that opened.  Left-click it to shut down.
  • Left-click the 4 squares in the lower left corner of your screen.  There you can find a picture of the universal power button, a circle with a line, in the bottom right corner of the screen that opened.  Left-click it and choose “Shut down”.
  • Right-click the 4 squares in the lower left corner of your screen.  Move your mouse up an inch to “Shut down or sign out”.  A menu will appear. Left-click “Shut down”.
  • If the above options do not work, hold down the <CTRL> and <ALT> keys with your left hand and tap the <Del> key once. The screen should change. Look at the bottom-right corner of your SCREEN, then left-click the Power button, circled with a line.  Click Shut down.

Why Annual Tune-Ups are Important to your Computer’s Health and Functionality.

Over time, sneaky scammers can easily install malware, spyware, and other malicious software on your computer.  I am often surprised how much sneaks in without customers noticing.  They are not viruses, so your anti-virus software will not catch them.  The most common symptoms you may notice include more ads, slower performance, icons appearing on your desktop, or nothing at all.

The result of malicious software can range from tracking your shopping habits to tracking your account usernames and passwords. This can help bad guys steal your identity.

For normal home users, I recommend that your computer get professionally cleaned at least once a year, depending on usage. Now is a good time to call to schedule an appointment to protect your investment, privacy, and data, including your documents, pictures, and music.

If you have any questions or need help with purchasing a new computer or servicing your current one, please call me.

Tim Santo is a guest columnist for Marina Del Rey Focus.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tim Santos, author of the Wiz Newsletter profile picture

Tim Santo

THE COMPUTER WIZARD

Tim Santo has been working in the IT industry for over 35 years. He has managed a nationwide tech support center and was a tech advisor to senior executives for TechForce.

He created his company, Tim the Computer Wizard, in 2008, specializing in affordable in-home and in-office computer service and repair for all levels of computer users.

Tim can be reached at 727-366-5711.