Updated 1/26/26: There's been a global supply shortages for RAM and SSDs that have caused a dramatic increase in prices over the past few months. RAM and SSDs are major and expensive components that are used in computers. Therefore, inventory of computers that were built by manufacturers a few months ago before the dramatic increase in prices are now being sold through, and we expect prices of computers to rise dramatically in the next few months. You may be reading this because the operating system on your existing computer is no longer supported. Since you'll likely be spending the next 5-10 years or more with your next computer, please take a few minutes now to make an informed … [Read more...]
January 26, 2026 By Computer Techs
October 1, 2025 By Computer Techs
Beware: The Latest Tech Scams You Need to Know About
Updated 3/26/26: Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to trick people, and we at Computer Techs are seeing an uptick in scams that target computer and internet users. These scams often look convincing on the surface, but with a little extra caution, you can spot the red flags before becoming a victim. Fake Invitations and Social Security Statements One of the most dangerous scams making the rounds is an email that appears to come from someone you know—a neighbor, friend, professional service provider or even a family member. The message might say something like "RSVP for the celebration (of life)" ,“Click here to view the invitation.”, “Check out this important document”, … [Read more...]
February 25, 2025 By Computer Techs
What You Need to Know About the End of Support for Windows 10
Click on image to view full-screen. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. There's no more free updates*, security patches, or technical support available from Microsoft - unless you take action. Most users have 3 options: upgrade to Windows 11, get a new computer with Windows 11, or extend Windows 10 security updates until October 2026. Upgrading to Windows 11 is recommended for most users for its advanced security, improved performance, and new features. Updated 11/1/25: Now that Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system has reached the end of mainstream support, computer users that haven't taken action yet to address their out-of-date operating system … [Read more...]
May 7, 2026 By Computer Techs
Yes, we can help you with your smartphone too
Most of us think of our smartphones as just another tool in the pocket, but they’ve quickly become the most important piece of technology we own. From managing finances to staying connected with family, your phone is a powerhouse. That’s why we want to make sure yours is running smoothly, securely, and up to date with the latest changes in the mobile world. The Big Switch: Saying Goodbye to Samsung Messages If you use a Samsung smartphone, you might notice some changes coming to messaging. Samsung has officially announced that Samsung Messages is being discontinued in favor of Google Messages as the new default messaging standard. Why the change? Google Messages offers better … [Read more...]
April 23, 2026 By Computer Techs
Why YOU are the best protection against computer viruses
In the early days of computing, the primary digital threat was the "computer virus"—malicious code designed to disrupt your system or delete files. Today, however, the digital landscape has shifted dramatically. While traditional viruses still exist, modern threats have evolved into sophisticated phishing and social engineering scams that target the user rather than the software. Because these scams rely on human psychology rather than technical exploits, your own vigilance is now the most critical layer of defense for your computer. The Evolution of the Threat For years, antivirus software was the "silver bullet" for security. However, cybercriminals have become increasingly clever, … [Read more...]
April 21, 2026 By Computer Techs
How to add emergency contact info to the home screen of your smartphone
The smartphones that we carry around with us can be used for just about everything - from banking to social media. But one of the most powerful tools your phone offers is often overlooked: its ability to act as a digital medical alert bracelet in a crisis. If you are ever in an accident and/or unable to communicate, first responders are trained to check your phone for emergency information. On older phones people would put in contacts with the prefix "ICE" - or In Case of Emergency. But on newer smartphones most people have them secured by a screen lock PIN, pattern or biometric identification. Here is how to set up your Medical ID or Emergency Info so it's accessible when help arrives - … [Read more...]
February 1, 2026 By Computer Techs
The most dangerous new threat on your computer is not a virus, and may come from someone you know
Updated 4/24/26: One of the most dangerous scams this year is an email that appears to come from someone you know— a neighbor, friend, a professional service provider or even a family member. The message might say something like “RSVP for the celebration (of life)” ,“Click here to view the invitation.”, “Review this important document”, “Check out the pictures” or "We’re updating our records”. If you click the link, it discreetly downloads a remote access tool onto your computer. Once installed, scammers can take control of your system, access your online accounts, steal data, or even lock you out completely. They wait for you to step away from your computer, or the middle of … [Read more...]
January 14, 2026 By Computer Techs
How to save money on internet, phone and TV service in 2026
Saving money on internet, phone, TV, and cell service can be a game of strategy! Here are some tactics to consider: General Strategies: Negotiate your current bills: Call your providers and politely but firmly negotiate a lower rate or better deal. Mention competitors' offers or threaten to cancel. Be prepared to walk away. Bundle services: Consider bundling multiple services with the same provider. For example, Spectrum and AT&T both offer considerable discounts on wireless phone service when you bundle with their home internet service. But it may not make sense to bundle ALL of your services. Downsize your plan: Analyze your usage for internet and cell phone data. If … [Read more...]
January 1, 2026 By Computer Techs
The Case Against Using the Email that AT&T and Spectrum Provides
Most people that have been using the Internet in the Reno area for a long time have an email address that ends in @att.net, @sbcglobal.net, or @charter.net. You probably got this email address for free when you first signed up for internet service years ago. It is the address your friends use to contact you, and it is the username for financial, device, social media and medical accounts. The idea of changing it now probably feels like a huge headache. However, Computer Techs and other technology experts strongly suggest that you stop using email provided by your Internet provider - commonly AT&T and Charter/Spectrum in the Reno area. It isn't just about having the newest … [Read more...]
January 1, 2026 By Computer Techs
Backup Options in 2026: Safeguarding Your Digital Life Across Devices
In 2026, our digital lives are more intertwined with our devices than ever before. From cherished family photos to critical work documents to keeping track of medications and health history, the data on our computers, tablets, and smartphones is invaluable. Losing it can range from a minor inconvenience to a catastrophic event. Fortunately, a robust ecosystem of backup solutions exists, offering peace of mind across Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Android devices. This article explores the essential backup options available in 2026, covering both popular cloud services and reliable local methods, ensuring your data remains safe and accessible. The Importance of a Multi-Layered Backup … [Read more...]
December 31, 2025 By Computer Techs
Fortress Inbox: The 4 Pillars of Securing Your Email Account
Your email is the "master key" to your digital life. It’s where you receive sign-in codes and password resets for your bank, social media, healthcare portals and even other email accounts that you likely have. If a hacker gets into your email, they can get into most everything else. Securing it doesn’t have to be complicated. By implementing these four layers of defense—unique passwords, passkeys, 2FA, and recovery info—you can make your account virtually impossible to breach. … [Read more...]
December 26, 2025 By Computer Techs
How to use a passkey on your smartphone to sign in on a computer
One of the best things about passkeys is that they aren’t trapped on just one device. Even if you haven't synced your passkeys through a cloud service like iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager, you can still use your iPhone or Android phone as a "physical key" to sign into websites on any computer. This cross-device login uses a combination of Bluetooth (to prove the phone is physically near the computer) and a QR code (to establish a secure encrypted connection). If you aren't already familiar with setting up and using passkeys, read this article first: A Beginner’s Guide to Passkeys: How to Set Them Up, Use Them, and Sync Across Devices Here is how to use a passkey stored … [Read more...]