The "Heartbleed bug" is a flaw in the OpenSSL encryption standard that is used by half a million websites which was uncovered on April 7. Most websites that require a password to access use OpenSSL encryption to "scramble" the data transferred between your computer and the website's server. OpenSSL has since been patched and millions of websites - many that you likely use - are being updated and new encryption certificates and keys are being issued. So what does this all mean for the average … [Read more...]
April 9, 2014 By Computer Techs
April 8, 2014 By Computer Techs
How to tell what version of Windows is on your computer
Updated November 2024: Every time Microsoft ends support for a version of their Windows operating system, we are frequently asked how to easily tell what version of Windows is on their computer. Here's two methods for determining the version of Windows on your computer: … [Read more...]
January 18, 2014 By Computer Techs
New twists in tech support phone scams
For years we’ve been warning people about tech support scams where someone claiming to be from Microsoft, your internet service provider or computer manufacturer calls to inform you that your computer is in danger and filled with trojan viruses or critical errors. In a later twist, shady companies began advertising on Google, Yahoo, Bing and other websites targeting search terms such as “HP tech support number” in hopes that vulnerable computer users would call them. After calling the number … [Read more...]
January 8, 2014 By Computer Techs
Internet search results for tech support often show misleading ads from companies that attempt to swindle your money
Sometimes when you have a problem with your computer, printer or other technology device you may be tempted to search the internet to find a resolve for the problem. When you search the internet using Google, Bing, Yahoo, etc. you will get search results from multiple advertisers that if contacted they will attempt to scare you into paying lots of money for a computer problem that you likely don’t have. This is similar to the fake calls from Microsoft scam, but since you are initiating the … [Read more...]
April 30, 2013 By Computer Techs
What to do with old computer equipment
We often are asked what should be done with old computers, monitors or other electronic equipment. Due to the hazardous materials and metals in electronic equipment, they can't be just thrown in the garbage. If you are getting rid of an old computer, it is recommended that your personal data be wiped from the drive. If you're giving an old computer to a friend or family member a new user account can be created, then your old user account(s) should be deleted. If the computer is being donated … [Read more...]
March 1, 2013 By Computer Techs
What to do if your email account has been hacked
Recently we’ve had a lot of clients report that their Yahoo, AOL or Hotmail email has been hacked. They first notice the problem when they are alerted by their email contacts claiming that they are receiving spam emails with links to prescription drug or work-at-home websites, or a plea for money after being robbed while traveling overseas. When attempting to login to their email some will discover that their password has been changed and they are unable to access their account. Others have … [Read more...]
October 31, 2012 By Computer Techs
Reno area freeway webcams
The pictures on this web page are mobile web browser friendly. On a computer, click on a picture to view its live video stream (if available). … [Read more...]
October 30, 2012 By Computer Techs
Windows 8 released – should you update?
The successor to Windows 7 – appropriately named “Windows 8″ – was released on October 26, 2012. It can be purchased as an upgrade for Windows Vista, Windows 7, or pre-installed on a new computer. A common question that we receive is “should I update to Windows 8?” I’ve been using the final release of Windows 8 since August, 2012. From my experience I recommend that people DO NOT upgrade to Windows 8 nor purchase a new computer with it installed – unless you like change. It has been described … [Read more...]
January 1, 2012 By Computer Techs
“As Seen on TV” Repair Scams
You’ve probably seen the TV ads or computer pop-ups for websites such as CyberDefender, PCMatic.com, MyCleanPC, FinallyFast.com and others. They promise to speed up your computer by fixing registry errors, reducing clutter, tweak settings, etc. Their websites promote a 100% guarantee, 5-star ratings from well-known web sites and user reviews that make their claims seem believable. But doing a little research shows the truth about many of these quick-fix programs and websites: many can be … [Read more...]
January 1, 2010 By Computer Techs
PC Repair Shop Dangers
Why take your computer to a shop? Watch the videos below about the dangers of taking your PC to a shop... … [Read more...]