Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
When was the last time you backed up your computer? If you have automatic backups set, do you check them on a regular basis? Have you ever tested your backups by trying to restore some of your files? It’s not enough to set your backups and forget them. You would not believe the number of … Continue reading How To Back Up Your Computer (For Windows And Mac)
Many people have asked me about Windows 10. They want to know if they should upgrade, and how they can reconfigure the settings to avoid Win10's notorious privacy issues. Windows 10's default security settings are not conducive to consumer privacy, to put it mildly. (Microsoft isn't alone in this; it's become an increasing problem with modern operating systems.) … Continue reading What You Need To Know About Windows 10
Time once again for my updated guidelines on creating passwords. The short version: use passphrases that are at least 12 characters long and different on every site, plus two-factor authentication where possible. And for pity’s sake, stop using weak passwords! Many people say to me, “I don’t need a secure password. I don’t have anything … Continue reading How To Create Strong Passwords (2016 Edition)
If you’re not protecting your Mac from Internet threats, your computer can easily be overcome by viruses and malware. But running antivirus isn’t enough. Mac users also need to be just as aware of scams, fake apps, and other Internet dangers as their Windows counterparts. Here are some resources to get you started. Mac Antivirus … Continue reading Security Basics For Mac Users
It's hard to protect kids online, because parents and educators often have a hard time finding resources that can help them understand the latest risks and recommendations. I've gathered a variety of information in one place so you can learn about antivirus, parental controls, and protecting your kids while using mobile devices and video games. … Continue reading A Parent’s Guide To Protecting Your Kids Online
The new Windows 8.1 affects you, even if you're still using previous versions of Windows. Here's what you need to know about the upgrade. First Rule of Windows 8.1: There Is No Start Menu Microsoft's been shouting it from the rooftops: "The Start button's back! The Start button's back!" Except that doesn't mean what you … Continue reading Six Things Every PC User Needs To Know About Windows 8.1
Everyone knows you're supposed to make backups, but choosing a method can be confusing. Here's a rundown of your choices for Windows and Mac. Related article: Today's Backups Offer More Flexibility by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) Built-In Backups All modern computers come with utilities which you can use to back up to an external … Continue reading How To Backup And Restore Files On Your PC Or Mac
I recently spent some quality time with the new BlackBerry Z10. The Z10 is a lightweight, keyboardless smart phone... wait, a keyboardless BlackBerry? How does that work? Let's find out. The Z10 has a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm processor with 2GB of RAM and a 4.2-inch 1,280-by-768 LCD display at 356 pixels per inch. It's sized … Continue reading Hands-On With The BlackBerry Z10
Many people say to me, “I don’t need a secure password. I don’t have anything sensitive on my computer, so I don’t care if a hacker gets in.” You, my friends, are a hacker’s dream. Because it’s not necessarily your personal information they want, although they’ll happily steal your credit card info if they can. … Continue reading How To Create Secure Passwords (Revised Edition)
Want to learn more about LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter? I've added new social networking seminars to my calendar for the month of May. NEW! Grow Your Business With Social Networking Power Partners Of Cary Grove Thursday, May 19, 2011, 8am-9am Century 21 Sketchbook, 20 Northwest Hwy (Rt 14), Cary IL What's the best way to … Continue reading New Social Networking Seminars In May
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 