> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://knowledge.illumina.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://knowledge.illumina.com/instrumentation/nextseq-500-550/instrumentation-nextseq-500-550-reference_material-list/000007445.md).

# Best Practices for maintaining the computer on a NextSeq 500/550

Proper maintenance of the instrument computer minimizes computer-related issues during sequencing runs. The following tips help maintain the instrument computer. How often these maintenance steps are completed is dependent on the usage of the instrument.

**Power cycle the computer and instrument**

Power cycling resets the instrument computer, memory usage, and software programs. A power cycle consists of shutting down the instrument and computer, leaving the system off for two to five minutes, then restarting the instrument and computer. The [NextSeq 500/550 Sequencing System Guide](https://support.illumina.com/downloads/nextseq-500-550-systems-product-documentation.html) contains recommendations for properly power cycling.

* Instruments should be left on continuously to maintain the integrity of the instrument fluidics.
* Power cycling the instrument computer regularly can maintain consistent instrument computer performance.
* Power cycling the instrument may be required during troubleshooting.

For further information, see Knowledge Base article [How to Power Cycle the NextSeq 500/550](/instrumentation/general/instrumentation-general-reference_material-list/000001972.md).

**Cleaning the hard drives**

* **NextSeq Control Software v2**The NextSeq hard drive is designed to store data for one run, which is automatically overwritten when a new run is started.
* **NextSeq Control Software v4**The NextSeq hard drive can store multiple runs, but it is recommended to use an output folder in a network location. The data in the temp folder is automatically overwritten when a new run is started. Output folders on the instrument's local hard drive must be manually deleted.

**Language and Regional settings**

Instrument computer language and regional settings are set to English (United States) by default. Do not change this setting. The software is not designed to run in another language. Changing this setting can cause secondary analysis failures and communication problems between the computer and the instrument.

Daylight saving settings are enabled by default for correct syncing with BaseSpace Sequence Hub. Do not change this setting.

**Security best practice**

* The [Illumina Security and Networking](https://support-docs.illumina.com/SHARE/NetworkSecurity/Content/SHARE/FrontPages/NetworkingSecurity.htm) web page contains recommendations for security configurations on all Illumina sequencing platforms.
* It is important that installed antivirus software does not interfere with sequencing runs.
* Further platform-specific recommendations are found in the [NextSeq 500/550 site prep guide.](https://support.illumina.com/downloads/nextseq-site-prep-guide-15045113.html?langsel=/us/)

For information on best practices for other Illumina instruments, see Knowledge Base article [Best practices for maintaining the computer on Illumina sequencing systems](/instrumentation/general/instrumentation-general-reference_material-list/000005253.md).

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| *For any feedback or questions regarding this article (Illumina Knowledge Article #7445), contact Illumina Technical Support* [*techsupport@illumina.com*](mailto:techsupport@illumina.com?subject=Question%2FFeedback%20Regarding%20Illumina%20Knowledge%20Article%20#000005253%20-%20Instrumentation%20\&body=Dear%20Illumina%20Technical%20Support,%0D%0A%0D%0A)*.* |


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