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WorkSimple

Most of us have goals whether they be personal or professional. Goals are what motivates us to perform better and strive towards something. It’s no wonder then that employers keep asking what our long term goals are during performance evaluations. Anyone with goals has desire to succeed regardless of what the goals are and that’s a valuable commodity. Continue..Read more about WorkSimple.

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Kout

Ever heard of Paypal, Square or Dwolla? If not all three, then at least one of them is sure to ring a bell. They all process payments and collect funds. Each has their own way of handling that task and ultimately deliver funds to users in a convenient way. New to the seen is Kout. Continue..Read more about Kout.

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ErrorHelp

Computer errors are a regular occurrence. Sometimes users see them and most times they don’t. However, seeing an error doesn’t make it less imposing or menacing. Users see errors and often begin to panic and question whether or not their system is about to implode. Fortunately, ErrorHelp is here to aid in finding answers. Continue..Read more about ErrorHelp.

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Evemi

A new social network looking to make its mark on the web is Evemi. Evemi is an interest based social website designed to connect users through similar interests and likes. Continue..Read more about Evemi.

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Computer errors are a regular occurrence. Sometimes users see them and most times they don’t. However, seeing an error doesn’t make it less imposing or menacing. Users see errors and often begin to panic and question whether or not their system is about to implode. Fortunately, ErrorHelp is here to aid in finding answers.

While it’s true errors mean something is wrong or has malfunctioned, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end result will be catastrophic. In fact, most errors are minor and simply a one time occurrence. Nevertheless, if users want to investigate the answer it can be a daunting task. Hunting through search results and help websites is utterly mind-numbing at times. Often it results in more confusion then when the hunt began.

How It Works

ErrorHelp is something a bit different. Like a search engine, it finds corresponding data with regards to errors. It lists any references that offer a solution and along with details, provides a link to the orignal solution source. In addition, ErrorHelp provides ranking information so that anyone seeking help can evaluate the reliability of a solution.

Now to be fair, ErrorHelp does use other resources to acquire the data. For instance, Google or Microsoft Support to name a couple. The benefit of ErrorHelp comes from the curated results which focus directly on the error entered. The clutter of similar problems and irrelevant results is removed from ErrorHelp’s solution listings.

Try it for yourself, head over to ErrorHelp and paste or type in your error code and see what comes up. You just might find that it’s a minor problem or maybe get advanced notice on something more serious.

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Technicians often work on Windows PCs which are password protected. It’s almost second nature to ask for the user’s password before servicing the system, unfortunately sometimes even techs forget. If you’re a technician that routinely works on PCs that have been picked up or dropped off, then the last thing you want to do is contact the client to ask for a password. It can cause delays in repair and is a bit embarrassing.

Kon-boot is a simple program which bypasses the Windows login password and allows technicians to gain access to the system temporarily in order to complete repairs. To get started, you’ll need to head over to Kryptoslogic and download the appropriate version for your needs. Afterwards, follow these steps:

1. Burn the .iso to CD.
2. Reboot to the CD.
3. At Windows login screen press the Enter key without typing in a password.

A very simple 3-step solution which saves a lot of time if you don’t have the password. After you’re finished, simply remove the CD and reboot the system. It will startup normally and the login password will again be required.

Of course there are other ways to bypass Windows passwords, but Kon-boot is very easy and works quite well. Obviously, we recommend this as a technicians tool and advise against using Kon-boot for less than legitimate reasons.

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Fix a Mac Pink Screen

During boot up of the Mac machine, hold the following keys simultaneously until the startup sounds are finished.

Press and hold: OPTION + COMMAND + R + P

That key combination will reset hardware values for several items including the motherboard, NVRAM/PRAM and others as well as features such as Virtual Memory and Mouse Speed. When you perform this reset, make sure you wait and listen for the startup sounds before releasing the keys.

If the reset fails to eliminate the pink screen issue, then the problem is likely a faulty video card and will need to be serviced. Contact an Apple store for a formal diagnosis on the Mac’s video card.

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The typical solution for that kind of problem is to open task manager and end the offending process. It’s a multi-step procedure that extends the already time wasting problem. However, if you don’t mind having an extra desktop shortcut, there is a way to streamline the task killing process.

Kill Not Responding Programs With A Shortcut

1. Using your mouse, right-click on an open area of the desktop, click “New”, then select “Shortcut”.
2. In the location field enter the following:  taskkill.exe /f /fi “status eq not responding”
3. Click Next.
4. Name the shortcut. For example: Task Killer.
5. Click Finish.

Next time you see the dreaded Program Not Responding message, click the shortcut and the system will automatically determine which program(s) are not responding and terminate them. This fix applies to Windows Vista and 7 systems. XP Pro users will find it works as well, but does not for XP Home systems.

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Software Maintenance

The first advice you’re likely to hear involves getting a PC Tune-up. That is a sound suggestion and if you haven’t done routine maintenance on your own, then your computer likely needs it. Aside from that, the other measurable change is a complete reinstall to completely wipe your hard drive and start with a clean slate. Both options work well and each can be done in a relatively short amount of time, but what if you’ve already exhausted those options and still need a boost?

Hardware Upgrades

Computer performance can get a huge boost from hardware upgrades and the prices for replacement parts make upgrades an attractive choice. Here are your best options:

Upgrade your RAM. Most systems have the ability to expand their inner memory beyond what was shipped with the system. Increasing the RAM in your system will yield an immediate and noticeable improvement in system performance. Determining the type of RAM and how much it can be increased depends entirely on your computer make and model, but if you are at this stage then the best recommendation is to use the max your system will allow.

Increase your storage. If your system is several years old then you could be running into a space issue on your hard drive. If you have less than 15% of your hard drive available for use then you’ll experience sluggishness. A larger hard drive can alleviate that pressure as well as give you more space overall for storing photos, music, etc. Again, hard drive type will vary by system so it’s important to check before you buy.

Replace your video card. If you do a lot of heavy graphic editing, are a huge multi-tasker or enjoy watching a lot of video on the computer, then upgrading your video card could be beneficial. Video cards have their own specifications and memory so the more advanced the card, the better the output. A new video card will help, but you’ll get the most from it by combining the new card with upgraded RAM.

Cloud Options

If storage is the only thing holding your system back, then you can also look into cloud storage options. By storing your data in the cloud, you’ll free up space on your hard drive. Additionally, think about using web apps instead of traditional software. For example, look at Google Docs vs MS Office. If Google Docs works, then you can uninstall MS Office and free up more space on your hard drive. Another example is email. Use your browser to check your email instead of an email program. By doing so you don’t have to worry about saving or backing up your emails nor do you need the software that takes up valuable disk space. There are many more cloud options and you’ll have to decide if they’re practical for your situation. If moving to the cloud sounds appealing, but need some help or input, contact us for some guidance.

Your Thoughts

Have any other suggestions for turning an old pc new again? Have you tried any of these options with success or failure? Let us know in the comments!

The post How To Get Your Old Computer Running Like New Again first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

Longevity vs. Charge

First, let’s understand the question. The question relates to longevity of the battery not the charge length of the battery. The reason battery lifespan and longevity is so important is because replacement batteries can cost more than $100. Once a battery has lost its ability to charge it is essentially useless.

A Battery In Use Is A Battery Used

The short answer for extending the lifespan of your laptop battery is to simply not use it. That may sound silly and even absurd, but it is the only surefire way to prevent overcharging and charging degradation. Of course, you’re probably asking, “How can I use the laptop if I don’t use the battery?”. Easy, when you use your laptop at home, in a hotel or wherever it’s convenient to plug-in, just remove the battery and use your power adapter to plug into an outlet. You’ll find that a number of technicians actually carry a fully charged battery with them, but use it only when a power source is not easily available.

Alternatives

Other suggestions include drain the battery completely before charging it up and don’t overcharge your battery. If the battery is charged completely, unplug your laptop to prevent overcharge degradation. While this method should increase the lifespan of your battery a bit, the impact of removing the battery is much greater.

 Your Thoughts

Have you had to replace a laptop battery? Do you use any other methods to increase the longevity of your battery? Let us know in the comments!

The post How To Increase Laptop Battery Lifespan first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

What is Online Virus Removal?

Online virus removal, sometimes referred to as remote virus removal, is a method of removing viruses whereby the removal process is performed by a third party via remote access or remote support while connected through the web to your computer. Often online virus removal is wrongfully thought of as removing viruses from an online scan or web based source. Typically users can scan their system online but the removal process cannot be performed without a download or connection to a virus removal service.

So, how does online virus removal work?

It is really very simple. You connect your computer to someone else’s, be it an individual or computer repair company. There are several ways of achieving the connection but its important to have a secure, encrypted connection like the connection used by GeekITDown. After a connection is established, the technician on the other end will perform the virus removal service and disconnect when complete.

Where can I get online virus removal service?

We’re proud to brag about our online virus removal service so if you’re in need of service you can get started with virus removal here. To be fair, there are other sources available across the web. The thing to remember is that not all services are alike. Price, customer service, quality and follow-up are all important factors when making your decision. Another factor that many potential clients inquire about is the location of service providers. Clients want to know where their money is going and who is receiving it. As an example, all GeekITDown services are processed in the US. That means all funds are paid to a US company and a tech located in the US handles the service call.

When should I use online virus removal or similar services?

Has your computer ever caught a virus and your anti-virus cleans it only to have it pop back up again? The biggest reason for that is the virus in question has planted itself in a way that it restarts itself where the anti-virus can’t get to or see it. When that occurs you’ll need to get some online help to fully eliminate it.

Why online virus removal instead of a software download?

While software can be effective, there is zero guarantee it will remove the virus infection. Online service is just that, a service. You’re hiring a person or company to remove the virus infecting your computer. That is an important distinction. The work from a person or company is likely to be guaranteed in some way. There are other benefits like interaction with the technician so you can ask questions or confirm the removal service was successful, a technician is likely to go the extra mile whereas once you buy the software you are on your own.

Summary

Online virus removal is a fantastic use of today’s technology to help computer users across the globe. The functionality is sound and the benefit immense. There is no reason not to hire an online virus removal service and take advantage of this modern style repairman.

Have you Ever used an online repair service? Have a story to share? Share your thoughts with other users in the comments section.

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Computer Repair Technicians are often asked about protection from infections. Clients want recommendations on protection and prevention software that will ensure they are never infected again. Computer Repair Specialists engage in thorough analysis of a system and carefully detail each infection in order to develop a proper cleanup method, but they cannot guarantee the system will remain uninfected indefinitely. One of the most common questions a Computer Repair Specialist is asked after disinfecting a system is, ‘Will this prevent my system from getting infected again?’. If the specialist is worth his salt he will give an educated response with details explaining his answer. The short answer to that question is no. No matter what software or protection is used, they will not prevent your system from becoming infected again.

Prevention is the most important and probably the most misunderstood in this three step process. The only true method of prevention is better habits. Users need to use good judgment and have ‘security first’ in mind when using their computers. Better habits can mean a great number of things but two very simple examples are, users need to abstain from downloading files or software from an untrusted source and be mindful of unsolicited emails with attachments. Those examples are becoming common knowledge but there is much more involved when it comes to online security. Today’s users need to familiarize themselves with the latest threats and be aware of potential security flaws in the programs they use. Users may find it a daunting task and may need to initially seek guidance from a professional Computer Specialist. When better online habits are utilized security software becomes a second line of defense rather than the only source of protection.

Detection is the second step and is almost entirely managed by security software. This is where the money spent on security software is often earned. Security software, whether it be virus detection, robust security suite or some other form of protection is first and foremost an infection detector. The infections that run rampant throughout the internet are gathered into databases and security software then checks against those database. Without those database, security software hasn’t a clue what to scan for and therein lies the problem with security software being used as a prevention tool. Most security software programs do a decent job of detecting infections but as with all computer software, there is the human factor. Security software needs to be updated and operate regularly for users to get the most from it. Updates are crucial to maintaining up-to-date database and routine scans are necessary in order to catch infections early. In the end it is still up to the user to ensure updates and scans are performed regularly.

Finally, there is the cleanup step. Cleanup can be very difficult depending on the infection(s). Security software will usually offer a cleanup option which can be useful if the infections are caught early. Certain infections may appear to be cleaned by the software but actually remain on the system, hidden and unseen. Others will multiply themselves or cause additional problems that allow more infections to enter the system. Advanced cleanup of those infections will require a Computer Specialist. Cleanup is the final step but it is also the last resort. With better habits regarding Prevention and early Detection from quality software it’s possible that advanced cleanup will never be an issue.

If you’d like to learn more about GeekITDown ‘Prevention, Detection, Cleanup’ philosophy and how to use it to your advantage, please Contact Us and visit our Virus and Spyware Removal Services page for help removing your current infections.

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