How to Protect My MacBook Air

There are several easy ways to keep your MacBook Air safe.

Originally introduced in 2008, the newest iteration of the MacBook Air is one of Apple's best-selling high-end laptops, according to The Atlantic magazine. It's been advertised as the thinnest laptop on the market and has a streamlined design. Compared to the older version, the new MacBook Air has enhanced overall performance, improved graphics capabilities, increased resolution, superior hard drive capacity and improved battery life. A MacBook Air is certainly the kind of investment one would want to protect and use for at least a few years.

Instructions

1. Retain all accompanying sales documents as proof of ownership and eligibility for the 90-day AppleCare and one-year manufacturer warranty. As an option, pay extra for a three-year or five-year AppleCare plan and warranty extension at the time of purchase. This will not only cover you for any defects and malfunctions through replacement or repair but also afford you 24/7 support for all technical questions and concerns that may arise.

2. Carry your MacBook Air in a quality laptop bag or backpack with adequate padding and enclosure to keep it snug and cushioned. Choose from a wide range of products by Samsonite, Oakley and other well-reviewed leading brands.

3. Transport and store your MacBook Air in a specifically crafted "second-skin" type of enclosure crafted with the laptop's specific dimensions in mind, such as a Waterfield MacBook Air Wallet, Steve Sleeve by TreeHugger or RadTech Screensavrz Keyboard & Screen Protection for MacBook Air. Choose the one that best suits your needs.

4. Install antivirus software such as Avast! for Mac, which is available for download directly from Apple. Also use the password protection functionality built into Mac OSX, found under the "System Preferences" menu and "Accounts," to protect your data from hackers. While this software won't help extend the life of your computer, it's important to keep any sensitive data you may have stored on the computer safe.

References

• Apple: AppleCare Protection Plan for Mac or Apple Display
• RadTech: Ultra-Rugged Laptop Enclosure
• TreeHugger: Protect Your MacBook Air With a Steve Sleeve; Collin Dunn; February 2008
• "The Atlantic"; MacBook Air Becomes Apple's Best-Selling Notebook; Nicholas Jackson; March 2011

Resources

• Apple: Avast! Antivirus Mac Edition 2.74