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...]
February 1, 2026 By Computer Techs
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 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...]
September 24, 2025 By Computer Techs
Using Webmail for Reliable Email Troubleshooting
In today’s digital world, many people access their email through email clients or apps installed on their mobile devices or computers. Popular email clients include the Mail app on Mac and iOS, Microsoft Outlook and Thunderbird on Windows, and Samsung Email on Samsung Android devices. These applications provide a convenient, organized way to view and respond to email from one or multiple accounts in a single interface. However, when encountering email problems such as missing messages, sending or receiving errors, or synchronization issues, it is best to troubleshoot by going directly to the source of your email — known as webmail. Webmail is the online interface or website hosted by your … [Read more...]
August 19, 2025 By Computer Techs
Using the Same Password Everywhere Is Like Using Your House Key for All of Your Locks
Imagine if one single key unlocked your house, your car, your office, and even your safety deposit box at the bank. Convenient? Sure. Safe? Absolutely not. If you were to lose that key—or if someone were to steal it—they would instantly have access to everything important in your life. That’s exactly what happens when you reuse the same password across multiple accounts. The Convenience Trap It’s easy to see why people reuse passwords. With dozens of logins for banking, shopping, email, and social media, it feels impossible to remember them all. One strong password used everywhere seems like the simplest solution. But that convenience comes at a steep cost. The Domino Effect of a … [Read more...]
June 24, 2025 By Computer Techs
A Beginner’s Guide to Passkeys: How to Set Them Up, Use Them, and Sync Across Devices
Updated 12/31/25 - clarified platform and browser support: If you’re tired of remembering complex passwords or worrying about phishing attacks, passkeys offer a simpler, safer alternative. Major platforms like Google, Microsoft, Apple and Yahoo now support passkeys, and they’re designed to replace passwords entirely. In this guide, we’ll explain what passkeys are, how to set them up, and how you can use them across multiple devices—even for the same account. A passkey is a modern, more secure alternative to traditional passwords. Instead of remembering a string of characters, you use the same methods you already use to unlock your devices to sign in to websites and apps — such as your … [Read more...]
February 20, 2024 By Computer Techs
Charge Smarter, Not Harder: Maximizing Battery Life in Your Devices
Let's face it, dead batteries are never convenient. Whether you're on a call, streaming a movie, or crunching deadlines, a depleted battery can throw your tech-powered day into chaos. But fret not, battery-conscious friend! By understanding how and when to charge your devices, you can extend their lifespan and keep them powered up longer. Debunking the myths: First, let's clear the air on some common misconceptions: Myth: Leaving your phone plugged in overnight damages the battery. Fact: Modern devices have safeguards to prevent overcharging. However, it's better to avoid keeping your battery at 100% constantly. Myth: Letting your battery drain completely before charging is … [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 own brand. MVNOs typically do not operate independent retail store-fronts. This allows MVNOs to offer lower prices than the major carriers, as they do not have to invest in building and maintaining … [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 modem, and a new Spectrum WiFi 6/6E router if not using their own purchased router. Quite a few customers have been sent older DOCSIS 3.0 modems in error, and we've helped them make an appointment at a … [Read more...]