[rudra]

one think i didn't read much about in the posts up there. whether to keep your pc in powered state or switch off and unplug when not using...

after reading many write-ups out there, i find it logical that for modern computers, leaving it turned on does not matter much when it comes to its durability. except some components you might have, liked entry level hdds for retail consumers ( some are claimed to be tested and rated to work couple of hours each day of sustained use. vs the surveillance or higher tier ones rated for 24*7 use.), the whole system is better suited for leaving it powered on. i do just that. it goes into sleep mode and consumes like a small wattage bulb.

it is often during the powering on or off time, when your system gets damaged. cause that is when the system is not in steady state. power gradient is changing significantly. so unless you expect a lightning storm or serious loadshedding issues, i would just leave it on.

also remember that leaving it off and not unplugging leaves it very vulnerable to surges. especially from lightning strikes even if they are not close by. that high amount of potential difference travels through gaps by induction.

suggestion of UPS use is very sound. i use a really old one with a surge protector. ups is a big help especially if it is always online one. they dont last as long. but there you are always getting power from the battery. so it is what gets damaged in surge situations.

but switching type is good too. much better than none.