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
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
Why You Need To Delete Your Old Accounts
Most people let old accounts languish. But abandoned accounts are filled with information that can be used to send spam, spread malvertising, and commit cybercrimes. For example, I frequently get email messages from people I know, but haven’t talked to in a while. Invariably the email subject is blank or says nothing but, “Re:”. Sometimes the … Continue reading Why You Need To Delete Your Old Accounts
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
How To Protect Your Mobile Devices From Malware
Mobile malware is on the rise, but few people maintain the same precautions on their tablets and phones that they do on their computers. Here’s what you need to do to stay protected. Mobile devices need antivirus software just like any other computer, but watch for malware masquerading as antivirus. In general the same security … Continue reading How To Protect Your Mobile Devices From Malware
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
How To Back Up Your Computer (For Windows And Mac)
When was the last time you backed up your computer? If you have automatic backups set, do you check them on a regular basis? Have you ever tested your backups by trying to restore some of your files? It’s not enough to set your backups and forget them. You would not believe the number of … Continue reading How To Back Up Your Computer (For Windows And Mac)
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
Microsoft Alienates Customers With Forced Windows 10 Upgrades
Microsoft is facing public backlash for automatically upgrading the computers of unsuspecting customers to Windows 10. Since public outcry Microsoft has reversed course, claiming that the forced installations were due to their accidentally making the Windows 10 upgrade checked by default. In theory, this means that there should be no more forced upgrades. But the … Continue reading Microsoft Alienates Customers With Forced Windows 10 Upgrades
How To Protect Your Web Browser
Your Web browser lets you access Internet sites, but it can also be a gateway for viruses, malware, and more. Here’s how to keep your browser protected and secure. (Don't miss my latest article for The Northwest Herald - Protect Your Window To The Internet by Triona Guidry) Remember that it’s vital to keep your browser up … Continue reading How To Protect Your Web Browser
