You shouldn't leave old electronics sitting around, and you certainly shouldn’t put them in the trash. Here’s how to dispose of your old computer, tablet, or phone in a responsible manner. E-waste is a terrible problem. As consumers, it’s our responsibility to minimize the environmental impact of the technology we use. Selling, donating, and recycling … Continue reading How to Sell, Donate, or Recycle Your Old Computers, Tablets, and Phones
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How to Handle Computer Hardware Recalls
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
Why You Should Upgrade Your Old Version Of Windows
If you run Windows 7, you may have noticed a message on your computer recommending that you upgrade to Windows 10. That’s not just Microsoft shilling for more money. Older operating systems pose a greater risk to consumers, because they are more vulnerable to modern viruses and malware. I strongly recommend that you upgrade to … Continue reading Why You Should Upgrade Your Old Version Of Windows
Security Basics For Mac Users
When it comes to computer viruses and security, don't be lulled into complacency just because you have a Mac. I've been supporting Macs for decades and I can assure you, Mac users need to be just as aware of scams, fake apps, and other Internet dangers as their Windows counterparts. It is essential that you … Continue reading Security Basics For Mac Users
How To Create Strong Passwords (2019 Edition)
It's more important than ever to make sure you're using strong, unique passwords. Passwords are one of your main defenses against computer viruses, account hijacking, and other Internet threats. No doubt you've heard the many news stories of tech companies who have lost customer data. Some of these incidents were caused by hackers, others may … Continue reading How To Create Strong Passwords (2019 Edition)
Ransomware Spreads Across The Globe: How To Protect Your Computer
A ransomware worm is rapidly taking over computers around the world. Here’s what you need to know to protect your computers and networks. This particular worm, known by several names including WannaCry and WCry, is a type of computer virus called ransomware. Ransomware, as regular Tech Tips readers know, is especially nasty because it hijacks … Continue reading Ransomware Spreads Across The Globe: How To Protect Your Computer
Ways To Improve Your Wireless Network Signal
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
How To Prepare For A Windows 10 Upgrade
Microsoft's expiration of their free Windows 10 upgrade has PC users asking: Is it time to upgrade? Many people have delayed upgrading. That is to say, they’ve tried to delay upgrading… but Microsoft’s aggressive marketing tactics have gone from displaying incessant reminders, to downloading gigabytes worth of upgrade files without the user's consent, to performing upgrades in … Continue reading How To Prepare For A Windows 10 Upgrade
Ransomware: A Dangerous Threat To Your Computer
Ransomware is a particularly nasty form of computer virus that encrypts your data, then demands an electronic ransom for the encryption key. Why is ransomware so hazardous, and how can you remove it? Ransomware is vicious because it doesn’t just render your computer unusable. It encrypts all of your files, including those on networked computers, … Continue reading Ransomware: A Dangerous Threat To Your Computer
What You Need To Know About Windows 10
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
