If your laptop charging cord is lost, damaged or not functioning as it used to, it’s time to get a replacement. Finding the right laptop charger for you begins with identifying the charging interface you need. The charging interface is the plug that fits into the charging port of your computer. Different brands and models will use different interfaces.

For the greatest versatility, you can choose a universal laptop charger, which includes multiple interface connections in one package. However, “universal” can be a misnomer because there are some computers, like MacBooks and Microsoft Surface laptops, that use interfaces not always included in the universal sets. For a Microsoft laptop charger or an Apple MacBook charger, be sure to look for those brands specifically when shopping.

A laptop charger also works in tandem with an adapter. The adapter is the hub on the power chord that converts the voltage that is coming out of the socket into what is suitable for the laptop. Adapters may be sold with a charger, or separately.

While it is important to plug in your laptop regularly to keep it charged, one of the most important steps of caring for your laptop’s battery is avoiding overcharging. Some laptops offer a setting that stops charging once the battery has reached a certain capacity. If yours does not, it is a good idea to unplug your laptop once it has a full charge. Batteries heat up while charging, and the heat negatively affects the components over time. So, keep charging time to a minimum for a better battery lifespan.

If you need your laptop to perform for long hours without access to an outlet, you might also consider using a laptop that can accommodate a spare laptop battery. That way you can power both laptop batteries in advance for prolonged battery-powered work time.

Charging your laptop strategically is one of many ways to protect your laptop. To safeguard your device, internally and externally, make sure you also employ additional tools, like a laptop sleeve and padded laptop bag, antivirus software and external storage drives that can free up your laptop’s internal storage for better functionality.