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| Everyday Tips from the ComputerMom |
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Welcome to February. We've been lucky enough to have a very mild winter so far - let's hope it continues!
This month I've got updates regarding both the Windows and Mac operating systems. Also, some quick fixes that might save you from having to call me. And finally, how to celebrate National Clean Out Your Computer Day.
Stay warm, and enjoy the slightly longer days!
Regards,
Julie Marto
PS - Need some help with your new tech? Give me a call and I'll get you all straightened out!
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 Windows and Mac OS Recommendations
With so much change from both Microsoft and Apple in the last few months, here are my current operating system recommendations for PC and Mac users:
Windows - As you all should know, Windows 7 is no longer supported by Microsoft. What that means is that it is no longer safe to use Windows 7 computers on the internet. The good news is, Microsoft still hasn't turned off the free activation from Windows 7 to Windows 10. So, if you are currently using Windows 7, and don't want to buy a new computer, I can still upgrade you for my flat rate. However, I continue to recommend that you combine that with an SSD upgrade, as that combination will provide a vastly improved computing experience. If you are still using Windows 7, call me to discuss options and schedule your upgrade.
Mac - Catalina (MacOS 10.15), released last October, has been as much of a problem as anticipated. Catalina will not run 32 bit apps, which means that many older programs will stop functioning when you upgrade to Catalina. Even worse, you might not be able to uninstall them properly, as the uninstaller programs might be 32 bit as well.
Catalina doesn't work with older versions of Microsoft Office and Adobe software, so if you use those programs you must upgrade to the latest versions. Additionally, I have seen Catalina compatibility issues with programs such as Quicken, HP scanning software, and games. It is VERY important to know what programs you are actually using prior to upgrading, and make sure you have compatible versions.
Because there are so many potential software pitfalls, unless you are a pretty tech-savvy Mac user, I don't recommend upgrading to Catalina on your own. I'm happy to either make a house call appointment to assess your system and tell you where you might run into trouble, or do the Catalina upgrade as a drop off service. If you have an older Mac which you plan to replace in a few years, it might be best to skip Catalina altogether, and just upgrade your computer to Mojave and leave it there. If you do choose to upgrade to Catalina on your own, make sure to do a complete Time Machine backup prior to starting the upgrade. |
Quick Fixes
I love to see you all and solve your problems, and I know you all love to see me as well! And, of course, this is how I make my living, so I certainly don't want to give away all my secrets. However, sometimes when you call with a problem, there is a simple fix to try, prior to scheduling an appointment with me. Here are a few of those easy solutions - one of these might save you some money some day!
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Problem
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Quick Fix
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Why it works
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Computer won't start
(Only applies to desktops, or laptops with a removable battery) |
Remove laptop battery, and disconnect the power cord. With no power to the system at all, hold the power button down for 60 seconds. Reconnect the power, and see if the system will start. |
Residual electricity can stop a system from booting. This simple fix drains all residual power from the computer |
| Slow internet connection |
Reset your router - pull the power plug from the router, wait 60 seconds, then reconnect the power to the router. It can take up to 10 minutes to fully restart. |
This forces the router to get a fresh signal from your ISP. This can solve a slow internet connection even if it's only a problem on one device on your network. |
| Browser alerting you that you have a virus problem and need to call an 800 number |
On a PC - hit control-alt-delete. Then choose task manager, click on your browser, and choose "end task".
On a Mac - click on Finder. Then click on the Apple menu and choose "Force Quit". Click on your browser and choose "Force Quit"
On either device, make sure you don't choose "restore session" when you restart your browser. |
You don't have a virus, you just have a malicious pop-up ad stuck in your browser. Forcing your browser to shut down and then starting a new browser session will clear it up. |
| Computer won't shut down |
Hold the power button down for at least 30 seconds |
Computers are designed so just pressing the power button puts them to sleep. You need to hold the power button down for a good long time to truly power it down. |
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 National Clean Out Your Computer Day
Did you know that the 2nd Monday of February is
National Clean Out Your Computer Day? Okay, I'll admit I had never heard of it either, but apparently it's been a thing since February of 2000! So, how do you celebrate National Clean Out Your Computer Day? Here are some ideas:
- Run a free scanning tool such as Malwarebytes to root out any spyware
- Unsubscribe from unwanted email lists and clean out your inbox
There's plenty more you can do to get your computer into shape.
Contact me if you'd like to schedule a thorough cleaning!
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