February 25, 2025 By Mark Computer Techs

What You Need to Know About the End of Support for Windows 10

  • Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, there will be no more free updates, security patches, or technical support.
  • Most users have 3 options: upgrade to Windows 11, pay to receive Windows 10 security updates into 2026, or get a new computer.
  • Upgrading to Windows 11 is recommended for most users for its advanced security, improved performance, and new features.

Updated 2/25/25:

As Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system approaches the end of its lifecycle, it’s essential for users to prepare for the changes and take steps to transition smoothly. Microsoft’s official announcement has made it clear: Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. This means no more free updates, security patches, or technical support for the operating system, which could leave your device vulnerable to security risks and software incompatibilities if no action is taken before October.

Why the End of Support Matters

When an operating system (OS) reaches the end of support, it no longer receives updates from its developer – in this case, Microsoft. These updates, which usually occur monthly, include crucial security patches, bug fixes, and improvements that help keep your system running safely and efficiently. After the end of support, any vulnerabilities and bugs will remain unpatched, leaving your computer at risk of viruses, malware, and ransomware.

Additionally, newer software and hardware may eventually become incompatible with the older OS, leading to performance issues or the inability to use modern apps and devices.

What Are Your Options?

As the end of Windows 10 support approaches, users have three primary options:

  1. Upgrade your existing computer to Windows 11
  2. Continue using Windows 10 until October 2026 with reduced support
  3. Get a new computer with Windows 11

Let’s explore these options and why ultimately upgrading to Windows 11 is probably your best choice.

[Read more…]
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May 6, 2023 By Mark Computer Techs

New computer recommendations

Updated 11/7/24:

You may be reading this because the operating system on your existing computer will no longer be supported soon. 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 decision about what to look for in a new computer and accessories – and get the best deal. 

Our recommended minimum new computer specifications are:

  • Intel Core i3/AMD Ryzen 5 processor or better. For an Apple Mac computer we recommend getting Apple’s “M” series processor rather than an Intel processor.
  • 8 GB RAM or more
  • 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD) or larger
  • Please read New Computer Buying Guide for more detailed information.

If you’re thinking about trying to save money by buying a refurbished computer – we don’t recommend it. Typically they won’t last as long as a new computer, and are less secure due to unpatched processor flaws and some cannot be upgraded to more recent secure operating systems.

We’ve seen the best reliability with HP and Dell brands. Keep in mind that cheaper laptops and all-in-ones typically only have a vertical screen resolution of 768 pixels, whereas higher quality and clearer screens are 1080 pixels or higher.

Click on the links below to view recommended computers meeting the minimum recommended specifications noted above at the respective retailer’s website. Some models may be available in-store. If you come across a good deal elsewhere, remember to look for specifications that are a minimum of what’s listed above.

Desktop PCs:

Best Buy – Dell, HP – SSD PC Desktops

Costco – Dell, HP Desktops – make sure hard drive is SSD or HDD+SSD

HP Store – Desktop computer towers with SSD

Dell – Desktop computers & All-in-One PCs with SSD

Laptop/Notebook PCs – regular price differences are due to variances in screen size, processor (speed), screen resolution and 2-in-1 convertibility:

Best Buy – Dell, HP SSD PC Laptops

Costco – Dell, HP – SSD PC Laptops

Apple Mac:

Best Buy – iMac desktop

Best Buy – MacBook laptop

Costco – iMac desktop

Costco – MacBook laptop

Apple – iMac desktop

Apple – MacBook laptop

We can setup your new computer and transfer data from your old one

Please consider our IN-HOME services to get your new computer set-up quickly and properly, vs. the chain stores offerings, or attempting it yourself:

  • Set-up and connect your new computer to your network, printer and other external hardware. If you buy from a national chain store you’ll likely notice that they don’t specialize in in-home service, or they charge much more for the option. We’ll make sure all of your external devices work with your new computer.
  • Transfer data (documents, pictures, music, etc.) and compatible programs from an old computer. Some tech services just transfer your data to a folder on your desktop – we organize your data and put it in the right folders and programs. 
  • Remove trialware and unnecessary adware. We also setup free security, backup and word processing/spreadsheet software.
  • Customization and explanation of Windows features. We’ll setup the menus, controls and buttons with familiarity of your previous computer.
  • Install initial updates. A new computer out-of-the-box is already several months behind critical operating system updates and computer hardware updates.
  • Consulting about questions you have about your new computer system
  • Recommended storage/disposal/donation of an old unused computer

Custom-built computers

If you need a computer custom-built for gaming or business needs, we recommend contacting our friends at Technology Center.

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March 19, 2025 By Mark Computer Techs

Having problems with a website? Try these tips.

That moment of frustration when a website refuses to cooperate is all too familiar. Whether it’s a slow loading page, a broken link, or a complete inability to connect, website problems can throw a wrench in your productivity or simply be a major annoyance. But before you throw your hands up in despair, take a deep breath and try these simple yet effective troubleshooting tips. You might be surprised at how often the solution is quick and easy.

Try an alternative web browser

Most computers have more than one web browser installed. The most common browsers are Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox and Safari (macOS). If a specific website isn’t working or displaying correctly in your normal browser, open your other web browser and go to the same website. If the problem is happening with multiple browsers, and your internet connection is OK (verified by other websites working), then the problem is likely something that out of your control. Try the website again later.

Delete the cookies and website data for the website you are trying to use

Here’s how to delete cookies and website data for a specific website in the four major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari.

Google Chrome

Method 1: Through Site Information (Quickest)

  1. Navigate to the website: Open the website for which you want to delete cookies and data.
  2. Click the padlock icon (or “Not secure”) in the address bar to the left of the website’s URL.
  3. Click on “Cookies and site data” in the dropdown menu.
  4. A small window will appear showing the cookies and storage used by the current website.
  5. Click on the specific website’s entry (it will likely be the first one listed).
  6. Click the “Remove” button next to each individual cookie or data entry you want to delete.
  7. Alternatively, you can click the “Remove all” button at the bottom to delete all cookies and data for that website.
  8. Click “Done” to close the window. You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Method 2: Through Browser Settings

  1. Open Chrome’s menu: Click the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser window.1
  2. Go to “Settings”: Click on “Settings” in the dropdown menu.2
  3. Navigate to “Privacy and security”: Click on “Privacy and security” in the left-hand sidebar.3
  4. Click on “Cookies and other site data”.
  5. Click on “See all site data and permissions”.
  6. Search for the website: In the search bar in the top-right corner, type the name of the website.
  7. Click on the arrow next to the website in the search results. This will expand the details.
  8. Click the “Remove” icon (trash can) next to each cookie or data entry you want to delete.4
  9. Alternatively, you can click the “Clear all data” button at the top of the expanded website information to remove everything.
  10. Close the settings tab. You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Microsoft Edge

Method 1: Through Site Information (Quickest)

  1. Navigate to the website: Open the website for which you want to delete cookies and data.
  2. Click the padlock icon (or “Not secure”) in the address bar to the left of the website’s URL.
  3. Click on “Cookies and site permissions” in the dropdown menu.
  4. Under “Cookies and site data,” click on “Manage and delete cookies and site data.”1
  5. A page will open showing all stored cookies and site data.2 Find the entry for the specific website. You might need to expand the list by clicking the arrow next to the domain name.
  6. Click the trash can icon next to the specific cookie or data entry you want to delete.
  7. Alternatively, you can click the “Remove all” button at the top of the website’s expanded section to delete all cookies and data for that website.
  8. Close the settings tab. You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Method 2: Through Browser Settings

  1. Open Edge’s menu: Click the three horizontal dots (…) in the top-right corner of the browser window.3
  2. Go to “Settings”: Click on “Settings” in the dropdown menu.4
  3. Navigate to “Cookies and site permissions”: Click on “Cookies and site permissions” in the left-hand sidebar.5
  4. Click on “Manage and delete cookies and site data”.6
  5. Click on “See all cookies and site data”.
  6. Search for the website: Use the “Search cookies and site data” bar in the top-right corner and type the name of the website.
  7. Click the down arrow next to the website in the search results to expand the details.
  8. Click the trash can icon next to each individual cookie or data entry you want to delete.
  9. Alternatively, you can click the “Remove all” button at the top of the expanded website information to remove everything.
  10. Close the settings tab. You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Important Considerations for Edge:

  • Deleting cookies and website data for a specific site will log you out of that website and may reset any preferences you had set.
  • Be careful when deleting data, as it might remove important settings or information you want to keep for other websites.
  • After deleting the data, the website might take slightly longer to load on your next visit as it needs to retrieve the information again.

Mozilla Firefox

Method 1: Through Site Information (Quickest)

  1. Navigate to the website: Open the website for which you want to delete cookies and data.
  2. Click the padlock icon in the address bar to the left of the website’s URL.
  3. Click on “Cookies and Site Data” in the dropdown menu.
  4. A dialog box will appear showing the cookies and storage used by the current website.
  5. Select the specific website in the list.
  6. Click the “Remove Selected” button to delete the highlighted entries. You can select multiple entries by holding down the Ctrl (or Cmd on Mac) key while clicking.
  7. Alternatively, you can click the “Remove All” button to delete all cookies and data for that website.
  8. Click “Save Changes” and then “OK” to close the dialog box. You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Method 2: Through Browser Settings

  1. Open Firefox’s menu: Click the three horizontal lines (☰) in the top-right corner of the browser window.
  2. Go to “Settings”: Click on “Settings” in the dropdown menu.
  3. Navigate to “Privacy & Security”: Click on “Privacy & Security” in the left-hand sidebar.5
  4. Scroll down to the “Cookies and Site Data” section.
  5. Click the “Manage Data…” button.
  6. Search for the website: In the “Search websites” field, type the name of the website.
  7. Select the website in the list.
  8. Click the “Remove Selected” button.
  9. Click “Save Changes” in the pop-up confirmation window.
  10. Click “OK” to close the “Manage Cookies and Site Data” dialog box.6 You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Safari (macOS)

Method 1: Through the “Privacy” Tab in Preferences

  1. Open Safari’s menu: Click on “Safari” in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Go to “Preferences…”: Click on “Preferences…” in the dropdown menu.7
  3. Click on the “Privacy” tab.
  4. Click on “Manage Website Data…”.
  5. Search for the website: In the search bar in the top-right corner, type the name of the website.
  6. Select the website in the list.
  7. Click the “Remove” button.
  8. You can remove multiple websites by selecting them (using Cmd + click) and then clicking “Remove”.
  9. Click “Done” to close the “Manage Website Data” window.8 You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Method 2: Through the “Develop” Menu (If Enabled)

  • Enable the “Develop” menu (if you haven’t already): Go to Safari > Preferences > Advanced and check the “Show Develop menu in menu bar” box.9
  • Navigate to the website: Open the website for which you want to delete cookies and data.
  • Click on “Develop” in the menu bar.
  • Hover over “Website Data”.
  • Find and select the specific website in the submenu.
  • Click the “Remove” button.
  • Click “Done” in the “Website Data” window.10 You might need to refresh the page for the changes to take full effect.

Important Considerations:

  • Deleting cookies and website data for a specific site will log you out of that website and may reset any preferences you had set.
  • Be careful when deleting data, as it might remove important settings or information you want to keep for other websites.
  • After deleting the data, the website might take slightly longer to load on your next visit as it needs to retrieve the information again.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage the cookies and website data stored by your browser for individual websites.

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March 18, 2025 By Mark Computer Techs

Can your data really be taken off the dark web?

While no service can guarantee the complete and permanent removal of your data from the dark web, some services can reduce your exposure. Here’s a breakdown of what they can and cannot do:

What Dark Web Monitoring Services Can Do:

  • Monitor: These services continuously scan known dark web marketplaces, forums, and other hidden areas for your personal information. This includes things like:
    • Email addresses
    • Passwords
    • Social Security numbers
    • Credit card numbers
    • Bank account details
    • Other sensitive data
  • Alert You: If your information is found, the service will typically notify you immediately. This allows you to take action, such as changing compromised passwords or contacting financial institutions.
  • Provide Guidance: Many services offer advice and support on what to do if your data is found on the dark web. This might include steps to secure your accounts or mitigate potential damage.
  • Automated Removal Requests (Data Broker Removal): Some services go beyond just monitoring and will actively work to remove your information from publicly accessible data broker sites. These are not the dark web itself, but they are sources from which your data can be aggregated and potentially end up on the dark web. They send opt-out requests on your behalf to these data brokers.

What Dark Web Monitoring Services Cannot Do:

  • Directly Remove Data from the Dark Web: Once your data appears on the dark web, it’s extremely difficult, if not impossible, to have it completely removed. The decentralized and anonymous nature of the dark web makes it challenging to track down and control the spread of information.
  • Prevent Initial Data Breaches: These services can only help you respond after your data has been compromised and has appeared on the dark web. They cannot prevent the initial data breach that led to your information being exposed.
  • Guarantee Complete Protection: Even with monitoring, there’s no guarantee that all instances of your data on the dark web will be found. New marketplaces and methods of sharing information constantly emerge.

Think of it this way:

Imagine your personal information is like a piece of paper that has been copied and spread to many different, hidden locations. A dark web monitoring service can act like a search party that tries to find those copies and alert you to their existence. Some services can even try to stop new copies from being made by targeting the original sources on the open web (data brokers). However, they can’t go to every single hidden location and retrieve every single copy that already exists.

In conclusion, it’s your responsibility to keep informed.

Dark web monitoring services can be a valuable tool for staying informed about potential compromises of your personal data. They can provide early warnings and help you take steps to protect yourself. However, it’s crucial to understand their limitations. They cannot magically erase your data from the dark web once it’s there. Prevention through strong security practices and being mindful of where you share your information remains the most effective way to minimize your risk.

Your best defense against identity theft is freezing your credit with the major credit bureaus. This makes it difficult for identity theives to use your name and information for financial gain.

You also need to keep informed about the latest scams such as imposters using your personal information to convince you that they are a company, bank or government official, or even a friend or loved one. Imposter scams are often someone trying to persuade you to perform a financial transaction such as purchasing gift cards or Bitcoin, or process a refund into your bank account.

Visit Computer Techs YouTube playlist to watch videos about the latest scams to keep you informed.

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