Microsoft's Tips for Going Green

Article by George Norman (Cybersecurity Editor)

on 23 Jul 2011

If you were looking for a few ways to go green with your PC, then you will be glad to find out that Redmond-based software giant has made public thee tips for going green with your PC. Keep reading below to see what tips Microsoft made public.

Tip #1 – Check the power management settings
A handy way to cut down on power usage is to check the power management settings. The Windows operating system can automatically put your computer to sleep when you’re not using it (thus saving power), or it can turn off your monitor when you’re not using the PC (which saves power and extends the monitor’s life).

If you already have power management turned on, there is something you could do to save power. You could adjust the amount of time after which Windows turns the monitor off or puts your computer to sleep. Instead of 15 minutes, you can turn it down to 5 minutes for example.

For additional information on how to check and improve power management on various versions of Windows check out these instructions presented by Climate Savers Computing.

Tip #2 – Check EPEAT ratings
If your old PC needs replacing and you’re thinking about getting a new one, you may want to check EPEAT ratings before you make your acquisition. EPEAT ranks PCs (and all sorts of other electronics) and gives them ratings (bronze, silver, gold) based on how green they are. Before purchasing a new PC, check the EPEAT Registry and see if your top choices are on the list. Alternatively you can look for the EPEAT logo when visiting online retailers with the aim of purchasing a new PC (or any other component). CDW, Best Buy and Office Depot feature such logos.

Tip #3 – Recycle, refurb, donate
The problem with getting a new PC is what do you do with the old one? If you no longer need it, you could recycle it, or you could find a Microsoft-authorized refurbisher who will ensure your computer is disposed off properly and safely, or you could donate it to those who need it.


Latest News


Sony's 'Attack of the Blockbusters Sale' Slashes Prices in Half for a Ton of PS4 Games

17 Aug 2017

How Samsung's New T5 Compares to the Old T3 Portable SSD (Infographic)

17 Aug 2017

See all