I want to take better care on my MacBook Pro (new years resolution). Is there a good book to read, or an online course to buy (Udemy?). Is CleanMyMac a good choice, or is there an better option? Is Malwarebytes a smart choice?
MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 12.7
By far the easiest way to cause poor performance, instability, overheating and crashing is to install ANY third-party speeder-uppers, Cleaners, Optimizers, Virus scanners, Bit Torrent, or a VPN that you installed yourself. They are relentless in scanning your files, non-stop, looking for virus-like patterns in Everything, or looking for files that have changed. When completed, they do it all again.
The idea that a third party, with no special knowledge of the inner workings of MacOS, can somehow find a simple way to protect or speed up your computer — that is not already being done by MacOS itself — suggests that the MacOS developers are somehow "holding out on you". That is absurd.
You should remove any and all (other than Apple built-in) virus scanners, speeder uppers, optimizers, cleaners, App deleters or VPN packages you installed yourself, or anything of that ilk.
Your exceptionally well-crafted Macintosh computer does not accumulate filth that needs any third-party anything to clean it. Everything needed to run it efficiently was included in the box, except ONE: a drive on which to store a second copy of your files in case the first copy is damaged or deleted by accident. The backup software, Time Machine, is already present -- integrated deeply into MacOS.
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That computer is a battery-CAPABLE device, It is not optimized as a battery-operated device (it is not an iPhone.)
Your computer performs best when connected to AC power, such as the power adapter. It can use the full output of the Power Adapter AND when doing especially challenging work could also freely "borrow" power from the battery. In some cases, even with the power adapter connected, the charged state may decline during very stressful work.
When used only on battery, your computer has no extra cushion of power, and may perform more slowly. However, for ordinary non-stressful tasks this may not be objectionable (possibly not even noticeable.)
In general, you should ALWAYS connect a power source when it is possible to do so, and only run on batteries (which could be somewhat slower) when no power sources are at hand. Modern Macs maintain optimum battery charge levels under program control, and will NEVER over-charge. Connected to Power is NOT necessarily charging.
When you set it down in one place, or set it down for the night, Plug it in. Then you won’t CARE whether it would drain the battery.
By far the easiest way to cause poor performance, instability, overheating and crashing is to install ANY third-party speeder-uppers, Cleaners, Optimizers, Virus scanners, Bit Torrent, or a VPN that you installed yourself. They are relentless in scanning your files, non-stop, looking for virus-like patterns in Everything, or looking for files that have changed. When completed, they do it all again.
The idea that a third party, with no special knowledge of the inner workings of MacOS, can somehow find a simple way to protect or speed up your computer — that is not already being done by MacOS itself — suggests that the MacOS developers are somehow "holding out on you". That is absurd.
You should remove any and all (other than Apple built-in) virus scanners, speeder uppers, optimizers, cleaners, App deleters or VPN packages you installed yourself, or anything of that ilk.
Your exceptionally well-crafted Macintosh computer does not accumulate filth that needs any third-party anything to clean it. Everything needed to run it efficiently was included in the box, except ONE: a drive on which to store a second copy of your files in case the first copy is damaged or deleted by accident. The backup software, Time Machine, is already present -- integrated deeply into MacOS.
--------
That computer is a battery-CAPABLE device, It is not optimized as a battery-operated device (it is not an iPhone.)
Your computer performs best when connected to AC power, such as the power adapter. It can use the full output of the Power Adapter AND when doing especially challenging work could also freely "borrow" power from the battery. In some cases, even with the power adapter connected, the charged state may decline during very stressful work.
When used only on battery, your computer has no extra cushion of power, and may perform more slowly. However, for ordinary non-stressful tasks this may not be objectionable (possibly not even noticeable.)
In general, you should ALWAYS connect a power source when it is possible to do so, and only run on batteries (which could be somewhat slower) when no power sources are at hand. Modern Macs maintain optimum battery charge levels under program control, and will NEVER over-charge. Connected to Power is NOT necessarily charging.
When you set it down in one place, or set it down for the night, Plug it in. Then you won’t CARE whether it would drain the battery.
Our respected friend @John Galt is correct and provides good guidance. Your Mac requires no add-on protective software.
Your Mac requires no always-on, third-party anti-virus or anti-malware software.
Apple has built these protections into macOS and they are updated regularly.
• macOS security built right in. - Apple Support
• App Security Overview - Apple Support
It's been said that the first rule for using a Mac is not to install junk.
The second rule is keep your macOS updated.
Macs do not need any particular care. Drive it like you stole it.
If you are seeking general introductory help, you're already off to a good start by posting your questions here. There are many experienced Mac helpers on this site who have been using them since the beginning, with encyclopedic knowledge that often exceeds Apple's own.
Is CleanMyMac a good choice, or is there an better option? Is Malwarebytes a smart choice?
You don't need either one. Please read Effective defenses against malware and other threats - Apple Community.
In addition -
Here is some of Apple's guidance regarding battery health and management:
Batteries - Maximizing Performance - Apple Support
About battery health management in Mac laptops - Apple Support
In a nutshell, to get the most from your battery:
• Let the OS and charging circuits manage the charging.
• Plug in when using the computer near available power.
• Use on battery when ac is unavailable or when you must be mobile.
• Don’t subject the computer and battery to extreme temperatures.
• Don’t allow the battery to regularly discharge deeply before plugging in. Yes, it may happen from time to time, just don't make it a habit.
• Don’t obsess over battery life and/or health.
I will add:
— do not use "skins," hard-shell cases, screen "protectors," or keyboard covers. All have the potential to cause hard-to-repair cosmetic damage and some can cause the computer to overheat.
— Use a soft non-static brush to clean the keyboard. I use pastry brushes with wood handles and natural bristles.
— A soft padded ballistics nylon sleeve has been excellent protection for my old Macbook Pro, now retired after 13 years of travel and hard use. It still looks nearly new and I did ont ''baby" it. The same case is now serving its replacement, an M4 Pro Macbook Pro 14" I bought in March. The sleeve I have is zippered but the zipper "teeth" and the metal actuator are covered so they cannot contact the computer case when closed.
— follow all Apple instructions in the previously posted llink of cleaing your Mac.
And, if you have a cat, never leave the "computer's "lid" open when o not id use. Kitties like to nap on keyboards possibly due a bit of warmth, and some feel compelled to leave a disgusting biological sample on said keyboard.
You mentioned learning about your Mac. Books are typically outdated the moment they are published, so they generally aren't a valuable resource.
The Mac User Guide - Apple Support is worth a look if only to find out some aspects of using Macs you may not have considered, but it comprehensively addresses all the fundamentals.
If you are fortunate enough to have an Apple Store nearby, Apple's daily Today at Apple workshops are enormously valuable. They offer one on one, hands-on interactive instruction in a wide variety of subjects, presented by enthusiastic and knowledgeable product experts. You can pick their brains for free. On that subject, they don't work on commission and they aren't there to sell you anything — you already bought your Mac, so consider that free service part of your purchase price.
In addition to the excellent advice offered, I recommend:
All the best! 👋🏼😉
Smiliñ 😎 Brian
MacBook Pro care and recommendations
