Tag Archives: computer

Make Tech Easier

Keep your computers running smoothly – avoid headaches!

Full article is at https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-keep-your-remote-work-setup-running-smoothly-with-regular-maintenance/

Computers and laptops really do need regular maintenance to keep running. NONE of this is difficult, but will avoid a LOT of headaches.

It does NOT look like this!

EVERY WEEK

  • Check for Updates
  • Shut down the device [don’t just restart]. Wait a few minutes. THEN turn them back on.
    • It REALLY DOES solve a variety of mysterious issues.
  • Clean up – use a cloth to remove dust and fingerprints and all the other ickiness from your device.
    • Most microfiber cloths will do just fine. You do NOT have to go buy something “computer specific”.
    • Clean the webcam as well.

EVERY MONTH

  • Refresh your internet connection – unplug your cable modem, router, switches – any gizmo relating to your internet connection. Wait a couple of minutes, then turn them back on.
    • It will take several minutes for all the device to reconnect and get settled in. Go have a glass of sweet tea while you wait, and take a deep breath.
  • Check your accounts. Go to  Have I Been Pwned to see if any of your accounts have been in a data breach. Apple’s Safari Browser as well as Google Chrome might also prompt you about accounts that have been compromised.
  • Check your backups – you DO have a back up of important data?
    • If you don’t, you’d best get on that right now. Machines DO fail – it is only a matter of time.

EVERY YEAR

  • Review your setup. Retire anything you don’t use.
    • That is a great idea from a security perspective, could save money on your power bill, and will certainly help declutter your space.
  • Document your setup – write it down! How are things connected, what gizmos do you have in the house, serial numbers, etc.

More, Websites

Dell: 10% coupon

If you are looking for Dell computers, etc. – ordering though the MDS Dell portal has an option for 10% off. Here’s how to get 10% off any time.

First, surf over to http://www.dell.com/mpp/MtDesalesAcademy .

Click on the “Get Coupon” button.

 It will take you to the page below, where you will be required to enter an email.

Enter Dell10 as the ‘Registration Code Instructions’.

You will then be directed to a page with your personal discount code that can be applied at checkout!

Make Tech Easier, More

Buying a Computer Monitor

Even though most people assume mobile is the best way to do computing [tablets, phones, and laptops] it is still true that a desktop machine has capabilities and situations  that make it easier to get your work done.

But that’s an article for another day.

Here is an article about the things you want to look at when buying a computer monitor. It includes simple, clear explanations about the specs you’ll run into [like ports, pixels, LCD types, etc.] along with some thoughts on when you’d need what.

It’s well worth the read if you are looking into a monitor – whether for your desktop machine or for adding to your laptop.

https://www.neweggbusiness.com/smartbuyer/buying-guides/computer-monitor-buying-guide-2/