Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Many parents are concerned about the amount of time their kids spend in front of a screen. But is screen time really as bad as they say? Is it possible for screen time to be helpful and not hazardous? Let’s start by acknowledging that too much screen time is not good for kids. There are … Continue reading Relax the Rules On Your Kids’ Screen Time
One of the most common questions I hear from parents is, “How can I set up parental control software?” But parental controls aren’t a panacea for keeping your kids safe online. Let’s talk about when to use parental controls… and when not to use them. Most computers have basic built-in parental controls, like the ability … Continue reading The Pros and Cons of Parental Control Software
When was the last time you sanitized your computer, phone, or gaming controller? For frequently-used electronics, daily cleaning and sanitizing is a must. Here’s how to get started. There are cleaning products specifically designed for electronics. Some people use a small amount of rubbing alcohol instead, or a touch of environmentally-friendly all-purpose cleaner. Avoid bleaches … Continue reading How to Clean and Sanitize Your Electronics
A few weeks ago, the graphics card on my PC finally gave up the ghost. What should have been a simple replacement turned into a frustrating example of bureaucratic nonsense. My old card was an AMD Radeon R9 390. Decent for its time, and I would have kept using it if it hadn’t decided to … Continue reading Tech Facepalm: Why Does AMD Make Graphics Drivers For Windows 7 and Windows 10, But Not For Windows 8.1?
Talking with your child about Internet safety can seem overwhelming, but there are some excellent resources available to help. Remember, protecting your kids online starts with protecting your computer from viruses and malware. Teach your kids to use strong, unique passwords, and to avoid oversharing photos and personal information. Monitor the sites your kids visit … Continue reading Internet Safety For Parents and Kids
Adobe has announced that, from now on, the only way to get Creative Suite is via the cloud. That's right, no more boxed versions of CS - you get it via the Internet or no Photoshop or Illustrator for you. Many people are wondering how this is going to work in the real world, myself … Continue reading Adobe’s Moved Creative Suite Exclusively To The Cloud. Is This Good Or Bad?
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
Once your data is in the cloud you lose all control of it. A journalist's online persona was recently hijacked through hackers' clever and scary manipulation of Apple and Amazon's tech support. This could happen to any of us, at any time. A description of the incident from the journalist, Mat Honan, who works for … Continue reading Apple & Amazon Customer Service Hacked: Can The Cloud Be Trusted?
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 