Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
What do you do when your computer manufacturer announces a hardware recall? There are several steps you can take to find out the details and protect your data during the repair process. Most major hardware recalls are announced by the manufacturer. That’s particularly true if the recall involves battery or power cord problems, because of … Continue reading How to Handle Computer Hardware Recalls
We all need to take responsibility for disposing of our old computers properly. Instead of throwing out old electronics, please consider reusing, donating, or recycling them. Old computers can have a lot of life left, especially if the hardware is good. However, if the computer can’t run current antivirus or software updates, it’s not suitable for reuse. Many people … Continue reading How To Prepare Your Computer For Reuse, Recycling, Or Donation
If you’ve ever suffered from slow WiFi, you’re not alone. But there are a number of easy things you can do to try to speed up your wireless network. The most common wireless problem I encounter is poor access point placement. Wireless access points should be placed as high as possible, such as on a bookshelf, and away … Continue reading Ways To Improve Your Wireless Network Signal
Every computer needs a tune-up now and then. Unfortunately computer viruses often disguise themselves as cleaning programs and other utilities. You think you’re downloading a legitimate program, but you end up infecting your computer instead. Here are some of my favorite bona fide utilities to help you keep your computer in top condition. I’ve included … Continue reading Clean Up Your Computer With These Utilities
I recently had the opportunity to test-drive the Samsung Galaxy S4 from Verizon. If you're looking for a powerful smart phone with some of the features of a tablet, this might be the device for you. Related article: Galaxy S4: Vivid Color, Vibrant Performance by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) The Galaxy S4 looks similar … Continue reading Hands-On With The Samsung Galaxy S4, Plus Antivirus For Android
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
Smile! Your private life might be streaming live on the Internet! Did you know hackers use viruses to commandeer the webcam on your computer, tablet, or smart phone? Makes you think about all the places you take these devices, and what they could be recording. In this month's The Northwest Herald I talk about the dangers … Continue reading Your Webcam Can Be Used Against You
