Updated 12/18/25: Below is a scenario that we hear about many times each month – and it could happen to you. You’ve just spoken on the phone with someone claiming to be from Microsoft, Amazon, your bank or Internet provider or other well-known company. You’ve given the stranger remote access to your computer and they’ve shown you a bunch of things that’s wrong with it – errors, security or firewall problems, exposed social security numbers, or even offered to help transfer funds to or … [Read more...]
July 17, 2023 By Computer Techs
July 17, 2023 By Computer Techs
How to save money at the grocery store using your computer or mobile app
With prices at the grocery store skyrocketing recently, we can help you save money by using the store’s website or app to save money with digital coupons, shopping sale items and other offers, keeping track of rewards, and even sticking to your list by ordering your groceries for pick-up or delivery. Digital coupons and offers Many stores in the Reno area feature digital coupons and other money saving offers on their website or mobile app, including Raley’s, Smith’s, Safeway, Save Mart, … [Read more...]
June 9, 2023 By Computer Techs
Should you really “cut the cord” to save money on TV service?
Overall, cutting the cable cord can be a great way to save money and get more control over your TV watching experience. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Streaming television programs to dedicated apps on your TV requires the patience of a learning curve from the way we've traditionally watched TV. If you're still not sure whether or not to cut the cable cord, you can try out a few streaming services for free before you commit. Many services offer … [Read more...]
April 19, 2023 By Computer Techs
Spectrum upgrades to symmetric internet speeds in the Reno area
Update May 2024: Charter/Spectrum has notified existing customers via email and web page that new symmetric internet speeds are now available to existing customers. A DOCSIS 3.1 modem is required for the upgrade. As part of a multi-year nationwide upgrade to Charter's Spectrum Internet service announced in December 2022, in April 2023 they began advertising the availability of symmetric internet speeds at Reno area addresses. The Reno area is one of the first markets to be upgraded as part of … [Read more...]
April 6, 2023 By Computer Techs
What is AI Chat and how does it make searching the Internet better?
In the past few months, AI (Artificial Intelligence) Chat has come to light as a new conversational way to search the internet. To compose the rest of this article I asked Google's Bard chatbot and Microsoft's Bing chatbot "What is AI Chat and how does it make searching the Internet better?". Below are the responses I received. According to Google's Bard: "AI chat is a new way to search the internet. It uses artificial intelligence to understand your questions and provide you with answers … [Read more...]
March 16, 2023 By Computer Techs
Don’t overbuy: How to save money on your Internet service
Updated February 2026: Now that the wireless carriers are offering Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Internet service in many areas, there's more choices for internet speeds and service levels. However, FWA may not be as reliable. You may be able to downgrade the speed provided by your current Internet provider to save money with little or no noticeable difference. Consider bundling home Internet and wireless service to save money. Internet service providers offer different speed … [Read more...]
December 30, 2022 By Computer Techs
Tips for Properly Cleaning Electronics So You Don’t Harm Them
No matter what type of electronic device you own, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping them running efficiently and smoothly. This ensures that your device continues to serve its purpose for many years to come. However, it’s important to be aware of how to clean electronics properly to not cause any damage to them in the process. It’s easy to overlook the importance of cleaning electronic devices, especially if you’re not aware of the dangers of improper cleaning. Not … [Read more...]
December 16, 2022 By Computer Techs
How to Keep Money from Being Stolen Through Online Banking
Online banking is one of the most convenient services available and offers individuals, businesses, and organizations a way to quickly and easily manage their finances. Unfortunately, online banking is also vulnerable to all of the same security risks that stem from the virtual nature of the internet. It’s important to take steps to ensure that your hard earned money is secure from theft and fraud. You wouldn’t want to suddenly realize that your bank account has been drained of your … [Read more...]
December 9, 2022 By Computer Techs
A chat with OpenAI about Streaming TV vs Cable TV
A new chatbot called "ChatGPT" that tests what AI (Artificial Intelligence) can do has been all the rage this week. So I decided to have a conversation with the chatbot about Streaming TV vs Cable TV, and our unedited conversation is below. You can sign-up and have a conversation with the chatbot yourself at https://openai.com/ What are the advantages and disadvantages of streaming tv versus cable or satellite tv? There are several advantages and disadvantages to streaming TV as … [Read more...]
December 5, 2022 By Computer Techs
Chromebook vs. Laptop. Which Is Better?
Chromebooks offer a less-expensive alternative to a traditional laptop, however they offer less features and flexibility. Many things we do on a computer these days can be done in a web-browser - from email, messaging and conferencing, listening to music, watching video, word processing and spreadsheets, and of course everyday reading and web browsing. If you can imagine using just a Google Chrome browser for all of your computing needs, then a Chromebook may be right for you. On the … [Read more...]