Computer/Laptop Ventilation

Just like you and me your computer and laptop need to "breath", So let's break this down into Computer then Laptop.  Your computer tower has ventilation holes in the case to facilitate air circulation with the internal fans,  These holes or vents are great at bringing in air as long as they are not covered, either by an object or by dust.

A lot of people store their Computers in a computer desk cubby hole and then fill up the rest of the cubby with manuals, etc.  If the computer can't breath it gets too hot, and if it gets too hot all sorts of bad things happen:  Your computer can shut down, slow down or even heat up to the point that your processor, ram, Hard drive or video card can stop working  PERMANENTLY.  Heat can burn out the circuits and kill your internal components..soooo keep your computer ventilated by ensuring your vents are clear of obstruction and dust. (You can just vacuum off the dust from the vents on the outside of the computer.  You need to bring your computer into a tech to properly clean out the dust inside...if you feel comfortable go ahead.. but you can damage a lot of stuff if you do it wrong.

As for Laptops the same is true.  You must keep the vents clear.  The biggest culprit of course is using your laptop on a pillow or on top of the blankets in bed without a proper laptop base as seen below:  Other than that you need to bring it in to a tech every year to clean it out from the inside...I DO NOT suggest you try that by yourself...Happy computing