AI in 2024: Your Friendly, Tech-Savvy Sidekick Artificial intelligence (AI) might conjure images of robots taking over the world, but the reality is far more down-to-earth. In 2024, AI is not here to replace us, but to assist us, and that includes everyone, regardless of age or tech skills. Whether you're a senior citizen looking for a helping hand or someone who finds technology intimidating, AI can be your friendly sidekick, making daily life easier and more enjoyable. Here are some … [Read more...]
February 20, 2024 By Computer Techs
January 17, 2024 By Computer Techs
Do you need to pay for antivirus?
Updated May 2026 Windows Security vs. Paid Antivirus For years, we've been bombarded with warnings about lurking online threats, prompting many to invest in pricey antivirus software. But with Windows Security, a robust built-in security solution on modern supported versions of Windows, is paying for additional protection really necessary? Windows Defender: A Force to Be Reckoned With Windows Defender is the core antivirus and anti-malware protection included in Windows Security. … [Read more...]
November 15, 2023 By Computer Techs
FBI warning: Cyber criminals impersonating brands using search engine advertisement services to defraud users
Cybercriminals are Targeting People with Malvertising and Imitation Ads In recent months, there has been a surge in cybercriminal activity using a variety of techniques, including malvertising and imitation ads, to trick people into revealing personal and financial information or downloading malware. FBI Warns of Imitation Ads in Paid Search Results The FBI has warned of an increase in imitation ads that are appearing in paid search results. These ads are designed to look like ads from … [Read more...]
October 16, 2023 By Computer Techs
Passkeys slowly replacing passwords for account logins
Passkeys are a new secure way of logging into websites and apps without the need for a username and password. Google just made passkeys the default method for sign-in unless you opt-out. As of fall 2023, few websites support the use of passkeys for sign-in. Usernames and passwords will continue to exist for many years due to the slow and voluntary adoption of passkeys. Therefore we still recommend the use of a password manager to store passwords, passkeys and secure … [Read more...]
September 14, 2023 By Computer Techs
The pros and cons of Google Chrome’s new Ad Privacy settings
Google Chrome’s new Ad Privacy settings are part of its initiative to phase out the use of third-party cookies for tracking and advertising purposes. According to Google, these settings are designed to enhance user privacy while still allowing relevant and personalized ads. However, some critics and users are skeptical about Google’s claims and prefer to opt out of these settings. Here are some of the pros and cons of Google Chrome’s new Ad Privacy settings, gathered from 2 different AI … [Read more...]
August 20, 2023 By Computer Techs
How we can help you save money on your wireless cell phone service – use an MVNO
Updated 12/16/25: If you're paying too much for wireless cell phone service from AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon, consider switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) instead. An MVNO is a wireless communications service provider that offers cell phone service without owning the actual cell towers or core network infrastructure. MVNOs are essentially resellers of wireless service, purchasing network access at wholesale rates from the 3 major carriers and reselling it under their … [Read more...]
August 17, 2023 By Computer Techs
Charter Spectrum notifying customers about required Internet equipment upgrades
Due to recent network upgrades in the Reno area which enable faster and symmetrical speeds, Spectrum has been notifying customers about required upgrades to their Internet equipment. Charter Spectrum Internet subscribers are required to use an authorized modem for use on the Charter Spectrum network, which they provide at no additional charge to the monthly Internet service fee. In 2023 and 2024 we helped many customers change to a new Spectrum DOCSIS 3.1 … [Read more...]
July 17, 2023 By Computer Techs
Your Scam Protection Guide – and What to Do If Your Computer Has Been Compromised by a Scammer
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
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...]