Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Tech support scams are a continuing threat to consumers, especially with so many people working from home. Here’s how to avoid them, and how to find real tech support. A tech support scam usually starts with a fake phone call, phishing email, or pop-up ad. Phone calls are an especially popular choice for reaching consumers … Continue reading What You Need to Know About Tech Support Scams
We’re all guilty of ignoring app updates, myself included. But keeping your apps updated not only prevents computer problems, it also helps to protect your data. Updating your apps is an easy way to prevent computer problems before they start. If your app is crashing or causing errors, an update can fix the problem. Features … Continue reading Avoid Computer Problems By Updating Your Apps
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
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
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 deviceSure, 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 as … Continue reading Ten Computer Troubleshooting Tips For When You’re Working From Home
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
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?
There’s been a lot of talk lately about “sharenting,” or parents oversharing information about their children on the Internet. Some parents believe they should be able to share their parenting experience as they see fit. But many children, as they grow older and realize the plethora of information that their parents have posted about them, … Continue reading The Risks Of Sharenting: When Parents Post Too Much About Their Kids Online (And How To Share Safely)
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
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 