Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Virtual private networks are easy to use despite the complicated name. Let’s cut through the tech jargon and talk about how you can use a VPN to protect your home computer. To understand VPNs, we need to know a little about how the Internet works. Every online service, from Facebook to Amazon to your local … Continue reading How to Use a VPN to Protect Your Home Computer
How do you know if a web site is safe? Do you look for the lock icon? Would it surprise you to learn that isn’t enough? Consumers have long been taught to look for the lock icon or “https” in the address bar to determine whether or not a site is secure. Years ago, when … Continue reading “Secure” Web Sites Aren’t Always Secure
Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is an easy way to add extra security to your accounts. Here’s what home users need to know about setting up and using 2FA. How Two-Factor Authentication WorksTwo-factor authentication works in tandem with your password. When logging in, you’ll enter your password plus a one-time token, such as a code sent … Continue reading The Beginner’s Guide to Two-Factor Authentication
Ransomware is a particularly nasty form of computer virus that encrypts your data, then demands payment 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, removable drives, … Continue reading Ransomware: A Dangerous Threat to Your Computer
Few of us maintain the same security precautions on our tablets and phones that we do on our computers. But mobile devices contain personal data, and they go wherever we do. Here’s what you need to know to keep your mobile devices protected. In general the same security rules we use for computers also apply … Continue reading A Home User’s Guide to Mobile Device Internet Security
Web browser extensions let you add functionality to your web browser. For example, you might use an ad blocker or antivirus extension to protect your computer from malicious sites. Password managers also use extensions to improve security when filling in online forms. Other extensions integrate with sites like Evernote, Gmail, and more. While there are … Continue reading How to Customize Your Web Browser With Extensions
You don’t have to be a computer expert to solve your own tech problems. Here’s how to get up and running quickly when you’re working from home. Reboot your computer or device Sure, it’s a cliche to recommend a reboot, but you’d be surprised at the number of people who don’t give it a try … Continue reading Ten Computer Troubleshooting Tips For When You’re Working From Home
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
Windows users face a plethora of viruses and malware, but the problem can be minimized with a few simple steps. As with any computer, the best defense for Windows users is prevention, including reliable backups and solid security software. Equally important, use strong unique passwords and learn how to recognize and avoid common Internet threats. … Continue reading Security Basics For Windows Users
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
