The way a device serves basic purposes like content writing, video editing or online meetings greatly differs from how programmers and developers use it for their specialized tasks. As a web developer, you need to ensure you get the best performance from your device. This makes web development faster and improves accuracy. Your productivity will increase when you take measures such as ensuring you have enough space and automating processes. Here are five ways to optimize your device.

Streamline performance

If you want your device to perform at its best for web development, you must ensure you have enough space. You can use built-in system utilities or third-party cleaners. Use them to clear cached files and other needless junk that are the biggest culprits in slowing down your system.

You may also choose a third-party email app on your Mac rather than Apple’s Mail app. In this case, you should find out how to delete the Mail app on your Mac. This will give you more space and improve performance. It is trickier to remove than regular third party apps as it is preinstalled and protected by the system. You first need to temporarily disable System Integrity Protection (SIP). Once you disable SIP you can go to Terminal and uninstall the Mail app.

If you disable unnecessary startup apps, you can reduce boot times and use of resources.
You should use browsers that are developer-focused such as Chrome or Firefox Developer Edition.

Create the right environment for development

Creating the right environment on your device for development includes selecting the right IDE, using version control, and using the right software such as Docker.

Use a lightweight IDE

A lightweight IDE uses less system resources. Netbeans is an example of a lightweight open source Java IDE. It helps you to generate, complete and highlight code. If your project involves using many files, modules or libraries, you may need to use a more comprehensive IDE.

Use version control

A tool like Git allows you to track code history and manage changes. This facilitates collaboration with other developers.

Use Docker

Docker software allows you to package apps into containers so you can test and deploy them. You will reduce your use of system resources and improve consistency across your development projects.

Install web development tools

When installing web development tools on your device you need to consider factors like cost and compatibility. Scalability and security are also vital.

Package Managers are tools that allow you to install, update, and manage software. You can use them for your software libraries or command line apps. Homebrew is one of the most popular open source package managers for Mac.

Virtualization tools allow you to test server setups or operating systems. These technologies and software create virtual representations of them. An example of a virtualization tool for Mac is Parellels. Oracle VirtualBox is an open source tool you can run on Windows.

Browser debugging tools such as Firefox DevTools or Chrome DevTools will help you to debug efficiently.

Automate tasks

Automation can help you to save time and reduce errors and inconsistencies as a web developer.

Mac’s Automator tool allows you to set up complex workflows. You can batch-process files or resize images with one click. Webpack and Gulp are other tools that can automate repetitive tasks such as compression and minification.
AppleScript or bash scripts allow you to automate most things, including deploying your web applications.
Tools such as GitHub or Dropbox allow you to back up your projects and enable file syncing across devices.

Upgrade your hardware

You will need to have enough random access memory (RAM) or you may have difficulty multitasking and completing web development tasks.

You may need to replace a traditional hard disk with an SSD. This will improve boot times, file access, and app performance.
You may need a multi-core processor. Each core can read instructions at the same time which improves processing power and enables you to multitask.
Using an external monitor and dual screens also facilitates multitasking.

Conclusion

Web developers need to make sure that the devices don’t slow down or and negatively impact productivity. Steps such as removing unnecessary files and apps can free up space and speed up your device. You can also create the right development environment and install web development tools. Automating development tasks can save time and improve consistency. Upgrading your hardware may also be necessary for optimal performance.