Much as cell phones have started to replace land lines as peoples' primary telephones, the internet is emerging as the new primary television service. If you have or are going to get a new television this season, think about adding a Home Theater PC to your living room!
Just because your small business has a website doesn't mean people are ready to trust you with their money. Your website is your identity on the web; if it doesn't look professional, neither do you. Have your website evaluated and updated by a professional! Contact us today for a free estimate!
Your Facebook profile contains a lot of your personal information, including your address and telephone number. Even if you "opt" not to share this information, malicious apps and plugins can still access it and use it without your permission. Protect your information and your privacy. If you need help, contact us for a free consultation.
You don't have to gaze longingly out the window when you have work to do. Take your office outside! Your home WiFi can be extended to reach any part of your backyard, and it's easy to secure your computer so you can take sensitive work to any public WiFi connection. Not sure how? Let a professional give you peace of mind. Contact us for a consultation today!
If your computer isn't fast enough to play the newest video games, you may be able to just upgrade a couple pieces of your current computer instead of buying a whole new one. A video card can cost as little as $50 and as much as several hundred, but is almost always a cheaper option than buying a whole new system!
If your computer isn't fast enough to play the newest video games, you
may be able to just upgrade a couple pieces of your current computer
instead of buying a whole new one. A video card can cost as little as
$50 and as much as several hundred, but is almost always a cheaper
option than buying a whole new system!
Soon you will be able to manage devices (like your printer) from any internet-enabled device. Companies like Google are working on moving your computing into "the cloud" so that you can do anything you want from any internet connection. Is your workplace ready? Contact us for a free consultation!
Exciting new hardware will soon allow solar energy to be converted directly to hydrogen, which is much more efficient than current methods. This is a big step towards clean energy! Like any electrical device, your computer also has a "carbon footprint." Speak to an expert today about replacing your hardware with efficient parts that will lower your energy usage to save your wallet and the environment!
Being involved in your children's internet activity isn't just protecting your family, it's protecting your wallet. Online spending has become so simple that even a child can do it, and there's no way for the computer to know who's holding the credit card. Be responsible: educate your children about safe internet usage, and be involved in every aspect of their lives.
Google has created a website designed specially for adults who feel out of touch with their computers. It's modeled as a "tech support care package" to parents from children. Start learning some new skills at http://www.teachparentstech.org/ -- once you learn the basics from Google, ask us about some of our intermediate and advanced seminars!
In a recent study, 26 of the top net-filtering tools were put to the test, and NONE were proven 100% effective. The best content filter you can have in your home is education and responsibility. If your children have access to the internet, please take the time to explain responsible usage, and participate in their online activities. If you need any assistance, please contact us.
"IP Cameras" are security cameras that are integrated into a computer network rather than as part of a closed-circuit system. These cameras are rarely secured correctly and a simple Google search can allow the whole internet to view the camera's video feed. Is someone ELSE watching your store? Have a professional secure your camera and put control of your security system back in your hands.
Most modern gadgets are equipped with "WiFi" and can be added to your home wireless network (including your smartphone). It's easy to give all your devices access to the internet without incurring charges to your wireless data plan. If you don't have a network yet or need assistance, contact us for a free consultation!
It's easy to control the way the internet is used in your house. You can completely block websites, restrict access to certain times of day, and filter harmful advertisements. Protect your family and have a professional set up internet controls for you today!
If you're frustrated with your internet speed, try using a different browser. Internet Explorer may be the most popular browser, but it's the slowest. Firefox, Opera, Safari, and Chrome are all faster and more secure than Windows' default offering. Give something new a try! Let us know if you need help.
Video games can be a fun and healthy family activity, just like any other game, but it is up to parents to create the right environment. Use common sense, consistency, and seek knowledge for things you don't understand to make sure your family is getting the healthiest exposure available.
Having a home network doesn't mean you need to contend with a cabling disaster. Making your current network neater or invisible can be a simple task, and it is even easier to create a wireless home network. If you don't have a network, but would like your home or office computers to share resources and work together, we can build one quickly, affordably, and custom-suited to your needs.
It's possible to make telephone calls using your computer. There are several services available that can give you unlimited long distance calls throughout North America for extremely low rates. If you have a fast internet connection, this is an excellent way to reduce your phone bill and still keep in touch!
All information you send over a public wireless network can be easily seen by anyone else on that network, and every month new software just makes it easier. Keep your work and information safe: don't do anything on a public network you'd like to keep private (including your passwords)! If you have no choice, let our technicians secure your laptop so you can use public networks safely.
Are you fed up of having your email clogged with spam? The U.S.A. is the number one SENDER of spam email in the world (almost 20% of spam originates from the U.S.A.). If you want to end this problem, you need to take control of your email habits. Schedule an appointment with us to learn how to tell spam from real email and how to protect your computer from becoming another "spam-bot."
To some degree, just about every electronic device is run by a computer. Intelligent, sophisticated devices such as cell phones are run by more complex computers, and therefore are more prone to security vulnerabilities. The latest target for hackers: Internet Connected TVs! Your TV may not be secured, but your home network can protect it. Schedule a consultation with us today!
Most modern peripheral devices connect to your computer through a Universal Serial Bus (USB). If there aren't enough USB ports in your computer for all of your devices, it's easy to add more. Don't just go for the cheapest option though! You may not supply your devices with enough power, which will keep them from working correctly.
Technical experts believe the next "big" innovation in home entertainment is Internet TV. Have you replaced your land line with a cell phone? Then why not replace your cable/satellite subscription with Internet TV? Set up a free consultation with one of our technicians and start streaming the web into your living room!
"Spam" doesn't just mean junk e-mail anymore. It's become so cheap to buy internet domains that advertising companies have poured resources into millions of junk websites. These are usually paired with the same harmful contents you'd find in your e-mail junk folder (or worse). Learn to tell the difference and protect your computer! If you aren't sure how, schedule an appointment with us!
Often when you purchase a new computer, you may notice it running slowly right away. This is caused by "bloatware", programs that are paid for by advertising companies. These come pre-installed on your computer and you will probably NEVER use them! We can turn these off easily and your system will run faster than ever.
A dirty keyboard can cause a lot of damage! The keyboard sends commands to your computer and tells it what tasks to carry out - if yours gets too dirty, it could start sending the wrong messages and cause your computer to malfunction. Extreme cases (such as drink spills) can even cause the computer to destroy itself!
Many internet service providers' profits are from taking advantage of customers who don't know any better. Do you understand your internet bill? You could be paying for things you don't even use! If you need help, please contact us for a free consultation. We will be happy to save you money.
"Moore's Law" predicts that computers will double in processing speed every 2 years. This trend has existed since the mid 1960s and is expected to continue till at least 2015. Is your computer half as powerful as it could be? Talk to our technicians about updating your hardware!
"Distance Learning" is a method of offering classes to students over the Internet. Distance classes can be high school or university level, and entire degrees are available for online completion. If returning to school has always seemed inconvenient, you can customize your schedule with online classes. Our technicians will give you a free consultation to ensure your computer is ready for you to learn!
Internet Explorer is the most popular web browser on the internet. That makes it the most targeted entry point for viruses and spyware to infiltrate your computer. Switching to a more secure open-source browser can make your internet experience much more pleasant!
Not all optical media are created equal - you should never judge quality by price. There are only a few "very good" disc manufacturers in the world. The "ink" on lower quality CDs and DVDs can dissolve in as little as 2 years, making them useless and destroying your precious information. If your movies, music, or data are important to you, learn which brands are reliable before trusting them!
A recent survey showed that 32% of people steal WiFi signal from their neighbours. If your WiFi is unprotected, you could be subject to over-use charges, vulnerable to wireless attacks on your computer, and illegal activities could be traced to your home even though you did nothing! Protect yourself! Have a professional secure your wireless network today!
A new study shows that young children can better learn basic computer skills (turn on/off, use a mouse, etc.) than basic life skills (swim, ride a bike, etc.). Computers have become so simple to use, even a toddler can do it! What's keeping you from learning? Contact us for our private seminars or for any assistance you may need!
The best way to keep your Windows computer secure and maintained is to ensure your operating system is up-to-date. You can configure your computer to check for updates automatically, or check manually whenever you like. Many of these updates are critical to your internet safety! If you need help keeping your computer up-to-date, contact us for a consultation.
The Internet is a powerful tool for harnessing the strength of a community. A new site called "Philanthroper" features one charity per day and asks its visitors for a $1 donation. Many small contributions can make a large difference! The Internet is your virtual neighbourhood. How are you helping to make your Internet better?
Even when switched off, many electronic devices still draw power, wasting energy and escalating your electric bill. New technology will soon reduce this problem significantly, but till then, there are ways you can reduce your power consumption and save your money, TODAY. Schedule a free consultation with one of our technicians. Your follow-up appointment might soon pay for itself!
There are now over TWO BILLION people using the Internet. That's almost a third of the global population. How many more will be online next year? And how ready is your business to greet them? If you need a website, want your website rebuilt, are looking for new ways to reach the online audience, or have any questions at all, contact us for a free consultation.
There are SIX different versions of Windows 7 available in North America. If you're buying or gifting a computer this season, make sure it comes bundled with the right one for you! Be especially wary of "netbooks" which are often bundled with Windows 7 "Starter" edition, a money-saving, stripped-down version which may frustrate you.
You can't keep your computer secure simply by keeping Windows updated, and running something other than Windows doesn't protect you from other programs' flaws. All your major applications need to be kept up-to-date and properly secured for your computer to be safe. One vulnerable computer could compromise your whole office! If you aren't sure, let a professional help you.
Big TV events deserve big TV experiences. Do you have a proper sound system for your flat screen? Is it optimized for your favourite show or movie? Our technicians can set up your home theater system and even talk to you about adding a home theater PC to complete your ultimate living room. Schedule a consultation today!
If your computer is running slowly, it may be loaded with a malicious type of software called "spyware." It does just what it sounds like: sits on your computer and watches what you do, so it can serve you advertising based on your habits. Protect your privacy! Have your computer professionally tuned today!
You can save a lot of money by buying a refurbished computer. Manufacturers recondition machines that have been returned to ensure they are running like new again, but they cut the price significantly when the product is returned to the shelf. You'll be buying something as good as new, complete with warranty, for a lot less. Ask us for a purchasing consultation before your next upgrade!
Just because you recognize 'name brand' anti virus software and it's sold in every electronics store--doesn't mean it can effectively protect you and your information. We can help you install FREE anti virus software, that costs you nothing to renew every year and will protect you against far more than a yellow box ever could!
Online advertising is one of the most affordable ways to get your small business a lot of exposure. You can reach thousands of people for dollars a day or less! If you're in the market for new customers and don't have a lot to spend on advertising, the internet is the place for you. If you're looking for someone to show you how, send us an email.
In 2009 the value of the average number of sales transactions per second was $2,000. The total number of goods sold was worth $60 billion. Is your business still running on a basic computer system--or none at all? Let us help you set up a small business network that will organize your billing, files, and client information easily in very little time.
There are lots of ways to get your favourite music tracks onto your mobile devices, and more are coming. You don't HAVE to buy an iDevice! Do some research about other MP3 players, see what your cell phone can do, and look into the available and upcoming music services. You have endless options. Let us help you choose the devices and services that are right for you.
You don't need to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars to turn your computer into a powerful working machine. "Open-source" is a term that describes free software that is created and developed by the online community. In many cases it is even more powerful than its retail counterpart. Save money! Ask our experts where you can get a free alternative to the costly program you need.
The best way to avoid spam is to keep 2 e-mail addresses; one for your friends and family, and one to sign up for sites and services. Even services that have strong privacy policies are subject to security breaches -- if all you lose is the sanctity of your "junk" e-mail address, you will be saved a lot of frustration!
Cloud computing can be as secure as -- and even more secure than -- personal computing. Companies like Google are adding layers of security to their user accounts that will make your work as impenetrable as your banking information, and you'll never have to worry about lost work due to hardware failure. Is your business ready to move online? Contact us for a consultation.
Homeschooling is more popular today than ever before. "Communal" homeschooling is especially popular, with parents sharing ideas and resources and even taking turns as teachers. Are you considering homeschooling for your children? Make sure your home is correctly equipped! Contact us for a consultation on creating a virtual classroom for your children.
You can equip your portable computer with security software to protect it from theft. Programs can disable access to your stolen computer and even locate it once it's been turned on. Newer computers will have these features built-in, but speak with a professional about protecting your work TODAY!
Just because you have a product/service and a website, doesn't mean people can find you online. You have to compete with the billions of sites out there, and the thousands that are very similar to yours will appear higher on your customers' search results. Optimize your site and make it search-engine friendly. Ask us about SEO for your business website!
Microsoft issues updates to Windows Operating Systems on "Patch Tuesday" -- but fake updates are issued by email to infect computers with nasty viruses. Learn to tell the difference! Contact our technicians for a free consultation or register for our private courses!
Technology can be your friend in finding the perfect gift. There really is an "app" for everything -- even event shopping! Don't fight the crowds in the mall; decide what you're getting and even order it right from your home. If you need help, we can show you how. Contact us for a consultation today!
Not all computers are built alike! If you want a laptop for portable gaming, graphic design, or any intensive applications, you can't just pick any one, even if they're in the same price range. Consult with a professional and ensure you aren't spending your money poorly (and you aren't buying more than you need!).
Cables are one of the highest profit items in "big box" stores (average 400% markup). Don't be fooled by terms like "gold plated conductors." Shop online and find equivalent cables for pennies. Amazon.com and Monoprice.com are some of the best sources for cheap cables and accessories. Plus, they make great stocking stuffers for relatives and friends who would otherwise spend $40+ for a $5 item!
All the data on your computer is stored on your hard drive. Without regular maintenance, this data can become disorganized and cause your computer to run very slowly. Your computer should undergo a significant maintenance routine at least every three months. Set up your appointment today and see how fast your system can be!
The Internet has surpassed TV as the main source for news and information among young people. Does your business have a web presence? Do you advertise on the Internet? If not, you are missing a major segment of the market. Schedule a free consultation to develop your business' web presence and recapture your audience.
Batteries wear down over time. A battery can only accept so many recharges, and each recharge lasts a little less time. If your laptop battery stops working or no longer carries a useful charge, don't buy a new one from the manufacturer. Third-party retailers can sell you a battery that carries a longer charge for less money! If you aren't sure what you need, schedule a consultation with us!
"Tablet" PCs are the latest gadget, and everyone is making one to compete with Apple's iPad. Don't invest in one just yet though! In a hurry to get to market, even big, trustworthy brands have sacrificed quality and reliability. Do your research before you spend your money. If you need help choosing the right tablet for your or your business' needs, contact us for a consultation.
A "virus" is defined as a malicious piece of software that is able to duplicate itself and spread to other computers. Not all malicious software meets this definition! Just because you bought an anti-virus software license does NOT mean you are fully protected. Have one of our technicians schedule a free consultation for your computer to determine what you need to be completely secured.
A new report shows that the U.S.A. is the world's "top attack traffic source" -- there are more computers in America under the control of hackers and spambots than anywhere else in the world! Is your computer one of them? Have your home and work stations professionally inspected -- contact one of our technicians for a free consultation!
Just because you've turned your electronics off, doesn't mean they aren't still using electricity. A number of devices exist that can help you correctly monitor your electricity usage and control what gets power, when. Retake control of your power bill! Schedule a free consultation with our technicians and start saving today!