Backing Up Your Data

A large corporation to a small business realizes the importance of backing up their data. However, there are still some hold-outs that delay backing up their data. Surprisingly, they assume that their company is immune to the type of disasters that strike thousands of companies daily. The growing concern is that cyber attacks are skyrocketing across the Internet. This data loss could easily destroy a company. For example, a company might lose their data, money, and customers too. All due to their inability to prepare or defend their company against a loss of data. Here is more on the subject.

Data Backup Facts

First, let’s take a close look at data backup. What exactly is data backup? Data backup is basically copying important files and saving the files to folders. The information is used to restore data loss. Data loss might occur because of a wide variety of circumstances. Generally, the data loss might have occurred because the company was vulnerable to attack by an outside source. However, some data loss occurs because of a massive system failure, hardware crashes, a virus, or corrupted files. Natural disasters might cause a data loss too. For example, a fire, flood, or even an earthquake.

Biggest Offenders

Of course, there are a wide variety of ways that data loss occurs. However, the biggest offenders remain cyber attacks, hackers, and malicious software that is innocently downloaded and used. It is interesting to note that sooner or later, just about every business is going to become a victim of a cyber attack, hackers, or malicious software. It’s just a fact of life for any business that is on the Internet. However, there are a few simple steps that every business should take. Those steps include keeping anti-virus software and anti-malware software updated. However, a business is still vulnerable to a physical or natural disaster.

Protecting Your Data

Thanks to modern technology and advances in viable methods to backup data, storing copies of your company data is a very easy process. Certainly, keeping copies of all a company’s essential files is more important than many companies imagine. A loss of data is loss of time, money, and customers too. Data backup does not have to be a complicated process. Data backup could simply consist of storing the data to an external hard drive, flash drive, disc, or even the cloud. Experts agree that using all the methods available is a good idea. For example, backing up to a hard drive, flash drive, and disc is great. However, a natural or physical disaster might destroy those files. Backing up to the cloud is a way to ensure that the files are readily available to replace data loss. The fact is that cloud backups are quickly replacing all the former backup sources.

The information provided here is only a starting point for finding effective ways to backup important company data. Remember, a good data backup plan is the best data protection plan for any business on the Internet today.

20 years ago, if you needed to pick a new company phone you had the option of a flip phone or a Nokia-style brick phone. PDA’s could perform some of the basic functions that smartphones can perform now, but they did not have calling, texting or mobile data. But as the market has advanced, so has the number of options available to you. There are so many, however, that it can seem overwhelming. These articles are here to help you make that choice.

For smaller companies, buying every employee a company phone just doesn’t make financial sense. A restaurant owner probably wouldn’t want to buy an expensive company phones for their line cooks, it’s not like they are negotiating corporate asset acquisitions anyways. But someone does not need to be an executive to benefit from one, and there are options that get the job done and are actually affordable. That is why today we are going over some phones, carriers, programs and advice for those looking to fill this need.

Using Personal Phones as Work Phones

One option to consider is that you can always use your personal mobile to use as a work line. The easiest option is for everyone to have their personal phones they are already using, and just taking calls off of their own mobile and their own number, especially if they are only speaking with coworkers. An equally affordable and more utilitarian solution is to use Google Hangouts/Voice to acquire a separate number that can be used for business. That is free for calls in Canada and the US, and can be used on the same phone.

There are ways to make your phone indicate it is a work call by making your Voice number appear when you get a call on that line. This way you can separate work and personal, and view voicemails and texts on your computer too. One slight issue when receiving calls is it can be hard to tell between who is calling the work line and who is calling your personal. You can set it up to have all work calls forwarded through the work number, but you can only see that it is a work call, not who is calling the work line. But the personal line will still be able to see which number is calling.

Affordable Phone Options

There are several affordable phones currently available, but before making a decision keep in mind that you may want to order one before placing the rest of the order. As well, this ensures that you can handle your mobile website, your company app, any hardware that’s needed etc. It may also be best to buy different phones to meet different needs, as long as you test each one. Someone who is distributing groceries to several stores in the area, and must keep in touch with management and customers, will likely need calling and GPS mainly. But if they are going to be needing to have their deliveries signed for, it may be best to buy them a phone with a stylus and a big screen capable of running an app built for that purpose. Some good ones with styluses include:

• Samsung Galaxy Note 4
• Samsung Galaxy Note 5
• Samsung Galaxy Note 3
• LG Stylo 2
• LG Stylus 2
• LG Stylus 2 Plus
• Samsung Galaxy Note Edge
• Samsung Galaxy Note II N7100

Features to Consider

If you need to someone who is constantly travelling, going on-site to clients, interacting with customers and working in and out of the office, there are several things to consider for the phone. Something like the Google Pixel will be able to tether, something nice for those who are not working in the office and dealing with large accounts all day. Battery life is also important, because tethering and things of that nature require a huge amount of battery. Something with fast charge like the Pixel is great because in 15 minutes you can have an 8-hour battery at the ready. If you need to give presentations with it, consider getting something with a micro-HDMI port.

To learn more about how to make your business for efficient for your employees, contact the experts here at tekRESCUE.

In our series on tuning up your computer, we continue by going over startup programs, checking resources and lightweight alternatives. We can’t teach you everything about IT in a day, but we can take the first step.

Programs in the background, programs auto-starting on startup, and checking resource usage

• Check the icons in the bottom right. If there is anything running you do not use all the time, you will want to stop them from auto-running. You could just quit them, but then the next time you start it will turn on again. So open up preferences and have them not start automatically. And some programs will keep running there even if you close the window.
• To see other startup programs, click Control-Alt-Delete, click task manager, and then click the tab that says “Startup”. Be careful to not disable anything that you do not recognize. If you have an HP, do not disable programs made by Intel, HP, Blue Western(hard drive) company, etc. You would not want to turn off something needed. But things like Dropbox, Skype, Spotify, and that one weird game you downloaded ten years ago, can all be disabled. Under “Status” in the Startup tab, it will either say Enabled or Disabled(meaning yes or no to starting by itself). To disable it, right click the program you are changing, and select “disable”.
• To find any programs that are running constantly, but not startup programs, you will want to open Task Manager again. This time stay in the Process tab, and see if there are any applications you recognize but do not need that are taking up a huge percentage of resources. You may have downloaded a video game that has a lobby for online gaming that is always on.

Programs for making your computer run faster

• CCleaner is a great option for clearing out old cache and memory space. Some programs tend to build up a huge cache, and after a time will begin to slow themselves down. When going through the options however, make sure you do not delete your browser’s history or saved passwords.
• Choose an antivirus that is lightweight. If you are running something like Mcafee you are probably slowing your computer down. Unlike a lot of other programs, you have to constantly run antivirus. But Avast is a great option for keeping memory usage low. We normally recommend this to all of our clients as well.
• Instead of using Safari or Internet Explorer, try using Google Chrome. Google Chrome outperforms almost any other modern browser(Mozilla is a close second). You would be surprised how much faster using Chrome can make your computer seem.

If you are not the kind of person who wants to mess with your own computer, we at tekRESCUE are here to help you and your business speed up their machines.

Dealing with extremely slow computers can drive any sane person mad. You are 20 minutes into the last 30 minutes you had to prepare for that big meeting, and your computer is acting like it is paid by your competitor to slow you down. You can try pleading with it, you can try banging on the computer to make it go faster, or just simply give up in defeat. If you have learned that just speaking to your computer is not going to magically fix anything, well it may be time to try something else. Many times just doing a few basic steps can greatly improve performance, at least relative to how it had been doing. But as well, it is always possible that you have somehow been infected with a virus or subject to a malfunctioning part, or even just the ravages of age have finally caught up to your computer. If you want to squeeze every bit of performance out of your computer that you can, this article is for you. This is just the basics, as IT can’t be taught in a day, but it can be started on the right path in a day.

Ruling out serious issues (hardware failures or viruses)

This should be done if your computer has gotten to the point where doing anything, even the most basic of activities is nearly impossible.

• For hardware issues, several things make it obvious. If it is crashing constantly, and is showing the blue screen of death, it is likely because of a hardware issue. For something that turns itself off automatically, there’s quite a few things that could cause it. But it could be something simple like a battery-failure, which is easy to replace for non-Mac computers. For a hard drive, run a program called “Chkdsk.exe” to see if it is still running fine. But for most diagnosis you will need to get a professional for help.
• Some viruses can hide themselves from anti-virus, but run a scan with whatever program you normally use, followed by one using MalwareBytes. MBam is not best for anti-virus in real time, but it is very good for checking to see if there is currently an infection. But something to remember is that if the virus is a rootkit or a trojan, it may have hidden itself deep enough to not be detected. And if it is detected, than certain viruses will not be removed by just using a simple antivirus.

Simple computer upgrades can also help

• • RAM is a very simple upgrade to make. Most computers can easily be taken apart to add RAM. You will want to use your System Settings in My Computer or This PC to check what kind of RAM you use. Normally you can get what you need for $30. If you have 2-4GB, if you upgrade to at least 8GB you will not have any problems with RAM at least.

Our next article we continue helping you tune your computer up, by going over startup programs, heavy apps, and program alternatives.

Don’t forget, IT can’t be taught over night. If you’re looking for computer maintenance services in the San Marcos, TX or Austin, TX area, give the experts at tekRESCUE a call today (512-843-2835) to discuss your needs!

When you are looking at a laptop or computer that, for reasons yet unknown, no longer functions in any way, or no longer functions at the best possible degree of performance, you may have a choice ahead of you: should you buy a new one or repair the one you have?

It is natural to wonder “Should I pay that fee for personal computer repair work, or maybe I want to fork out a few additional bucks to purchase an updated new one?” Professionals that specialize in personal computer restoration, as well as the selling of brand new computer equipment, can help you answer that question. They will be able to explain the available options based on your needs. If you still aren’t quite sure which route you should pursue, below are some examples that might help you.

Imagine that you are working one evening on the upgrade of an internet site and, all of a sudden, your display screen dims until it becomes totally dark. It appears that your laptop computer had over-heated and the hard disk drive may also be broken. How should you proceed?

In this case, you might reach out for the advice of professionals that specialize in personal computer restoration. They could offer you options such as to swap out the hard disk drive, which could fix your current problem without any subsequent issues, as long as you had previously taken proper care to backup crucial data files. In this case, you could continue getting your job done without further concerns.

On the other hand, consider that while you are working your personal computer tumbled to the floor and the display shattered. Should you decide to purchase a brand new laptop computer? Or perhaps you should get in touch with an expert focusing on personal computer restoration to have the expert repair the display? What are the proper actions to take?

Depending on your device, the solution could be simple. If the laptop computer you were using was older, the replacement display screen could be offered for sale in the shops, but it might be costly. At the same time, the hard drive could be outdated and not functioning properly. In this case, it might be a much better choice to purchase a brand new personal computer, due to the fact that, considering the age of the device, it would be likely that you would have needed to shell out a similar amount of money to the price of the repair for a new device within a year or so.

Making a choice between personal computer restoration or acquiring a brand new product is a determination you don’t have to come up with on your own. Never think twice about asking for advice from a personal computer specialist. They are definitely in the best position to counsel you, and they understand how to appreciate your financial allowance at the same time.

If you need more information on computer repair and replacement, contact tekRESCUE located in San Marcos, TX.

Graphical display is a complex process that takes a lot of different units. One of these hardware units is the GPU. Fully understanding this item and its many benefits in your display devices is crucial to spotting problems with them and getting them repaired quickly and efficiently.

What Are GPUs?

To better understand what GPUs are, it’s best to understand what they do. GPU stands for “graphic processing unit”, and they help to create quicker, more accurate, and easier to view images in a computing environment.

They basically manipulate and alter computer memory to create a quicker output for computer graphics and imaging processing software. Think of them as a video card, but one that works with large blocks of data in parallel manners in order to accelerate display and make it more effective.

How Long Have They Been Used?

GPUs have been in use since the 1970s, particularly in various arcade machines. These early units were very crude and designed to handle only a fraction of what a modern unit can display. Modern graphical GPU items were implemented with advanced computers, particularly the early mouse and keyboard-driven computers of Microsoft and Apple.

They have continually expanded to be used in mobile phones and even game consoles. Without them, it would be impossible to get the high-quality graphics and display possibilities inherent in modern televisions. They have truly changed the way that images are displayed on screens, making them a crucial part of the modern entertainment age.

As of 2017, GPUs are still being manipulated in a variety of useful ways. Typically, they are increased in speed with each generation while simultaneously becoming smaller. The idea is to create GPUs that are nearly nano-size in order to not only increase the computing power of the average graphic processor, but to shrink the average size of the computer required to run it.

What Problems Occur In These Units?

GPU units don’t typically suffer from a variety of serious problems, but there are moments when they might struggle to run properly or even fail to implement. For example, some GPUs will have a limitation on how much data can be used at one time. Going over this limit will slow down its operation and cause fuzzy or clouded graphics.

Another common problem that could plague these units is individual part failure. While not built out of very many materials, a slight flaw (such as a break in a plastic casing) could cause the unit to spark and put it as serious risk of burning out. This doesn’t mean it will literally catch on fire, but it could suffer from problematic operation or completely fail.

Can They Be Fixed?

When a GPU unit fails, there’s not much that can be done to fix it. While it is possible to fix the small individual parts that make up the average GPU, this is often more expensive than simply replacing one. Purchasing a new GPU will typically cost a few hundred dollars or more, depending on the type you use and the system that you are using it with.

Symptoms of a failing GPU include display problems, fuzzy images, difficulty with sound syncing, and unstable image display. These problems will increase in intensity as the problem gets worse, making it important to check them regularly to ensure that complete failure isn’t on the horizon. When a unit completely fails, getting it replaced will be the best option. If you suspect a GPU in your machine might be failing, be sure to take it to your local computer repair shop in San Marcos to see if it needs replacing, or if your issue is being caused by another source.

Since the beginning of the era of personal computers, there has been the debate of whether it’s better to buy your PC or build one. When it comes to convenience, obviously a prebuilt will win out. But when it comes to getting the best bang for your buck, it’s always best to build your own. For some, this means spending the least amount possible on a barebones machine. For others, it means getting impressive specifications at a great price.

1.) What is the purpose of your machine?

What you plan on doing with your computer will decide what quality of parts must be used, where corners can be cut, and if you should go with a prebuilt computer. What’s the daily usage going to consist of? Is your machine going to be used to browse Facebook, check the news, and occasionally edit Microsoft Office documents? Or are you a hardcore gamer that edits animated video with resource intensive programs? If you only need the bare minimum, Newegg has very affordable desktop computers that, when paired with a Chromebook for mobile usage, would suit basic needs. But even if you do not need a lot of resources to accomplish your daily tasks, it can still be cheaper to build your own machine.

2.) Parts You Will Need to Build a PC

• CPU(Central Processing Unit)
• RAM
• Motherboard
• Power Supply
• Computer Tower(the exterior case)
• Liquid Cooling(high-end) or Cooling Fans
• Network Card
• Storage (SSD or Hard Drives)
• Surge Protector
• USB Card
• Operating System
• Sound Card
• Peripheral Equipment(speakers, mouse, keyboard, monitor)
• Optional Equipment(printers, webcam, modem, external HDD)
• Graphics Processing Unit(for those who need something better than the integrated card that comes with some CPUs/APUs)

3.) What Parts are Best for you?

If you’re going to have an intensive workload for your computer, then it is recommended to have some basic specs to deal with the workload. Hard drives should either be solid state drives, or have 7200 RPM if you need more than a basic machine. A 5400 RPM will be more affordable. RAM should be DDR3, and 4-8 GBs will normally be more than enough. GPUs that are 1GB+ are recommended for gamers, graphic designers, programmers, or those who need to work fast or can pay a premium for better specifications. GPU benchmarks can be used to decide the most powerful cards for the best price. If you don’t want to pay for a GPU, make sure your CPU has an integrated card. CPU benchmarks can be used to decide on the best bang for your buck. Search for deals on Newegg, Fry’s Weekly Deals, and Slickdeals.

4.) Assembling your computer

There are several steps for assembling a computer. You can look for outside professional help, or use this popular online tutorial.

If you have any problems, Google is your best friend. The next step? Enjoy your machine! With a self-built machine you can also upgrade as you need, making sure it never becomes an obsolete computer. Download any antivirus software you may need when you first get it online to prevent any infections from taking hold.

In the course of our Managed IT Services business, we get asked a lot about the different types of switches that are available out there. Our customers like to know why we make certain choices in certain situations. Here’s a quick little guide to some of the switches that we recommend.  

Randy

What is a Network Switch?

A network switch is a device that is responsible for sending communication from one port to the next. It sends signals to various computers over the network. Part of what the switch does is to keep computers connected to each other. The network switch makes it possible for multiple computers to get connected and communicate with each other. The process gets done over one single network using Ethernet connections.

It is a usually a metallic box with several ports allowing connections with Ethernet cables. The ports can range from 4 to 48 (and more!)  depending on the needs of the customer. As needs change, you can increase the number of connections by using network extensions. Think of a surge protector or an extension cord with various outlets. The idea is the same.

Types of Network Switches

There are three types of network switches: Unmanaged Switch, Partially Managed, and Fully Managed. The three types of switches are listed below:

Unmanaged Switch

This kind of switch is inexpensive. Most individuals with small to medium sized offices use this sort of device. It does not require much setting up. They come delivered with the programs already built-in. They are referred to as Plug and Play. Once you remove it from the package, all that needs to get done is to plug the device into an outlet and turn it on.

The next step is to connect your computer to the device and type in the necessary password that comes with the equipment. Before setting up, the user should decide the location of the box. It should not be in an area that gets blocked by other devices. There should be enough space to plug in the various cables with ease. Additionally, it should be near an electrical outlet to avoid tripping over wires.

Partially Managed Switch

This type of switch allows limited control over customizing the network. It is slightly more expensive than the unmanaged switch. You should be able to regulate the port bandwidth. With this device, you get a little bit more control over your network. You can create workgroups such as Quality of Service (QoS) and VLANs (Virtual Area Network). Communication gets enabled as if they were attached to the same cable. This set up works well with VoIP-enabled phones. The ordinary consumer can still find this useful if he or she wants a bit more control over the configurations.

Fully Managed Switch

This type of switch is the most expensive device. Most larger businesses use them. Proper set-up takes some effort, and may require IT consulting in Austin Texas (think tekRESCUE) to properly configure everything. The set up takes time, and the person has to be knowledgeable about the system. The device has port security, access control, and VLAN capability. Individuals normally don’t purchase this type for personal use due to the expense and labor involved.

In conclusion, network switches vary. People buy based on their needs. There are three types of network switches, with the unmanaged switch being the least expensive. They are best to purchase them for home use. Partially Managed also gets purchased by individuals as well as small businesses. The user has a little bit more control over its configuration than the Unmanaged, though it costs a bit more. Fully managed switches are best suited for mid-to-large-sized business, and may require in-house or contracted IT technicians to ensure proper configuration.

Good computers aren’t cheap, but they’re essential for running your business. No one likes to go out and buy a new set of computers every year or two. Fortunately, by following the simple tips below, you can improve the chances of your computer having a long, healthy life.

1) Clean Your Fan Vents Out

You’d be surprised how much dust can build up inside your computer quickly. Even if you keep a nice, sterile office, the fans that move air over your computer’s components will suck up little particles that can cling to your machine’s innards. Be sure to regularly take canned air (or even better–a small handheld air compressor) to the vents to blow out dust build-up. It’s best to open the case for maximum effectiveness. If you’re uncomfortable doing that, contact a local computer repair service to help you out.

2) Utilize Surge Protectors

Surge protectors are a cheap, wise investment if you’re serious about extending your computer’s lifespan. One crazy storm can cause a power surge that can fry sensitive components inside your computer. It’s best to unplug machines during a storm, but if that’s not possible then a surge protector makes for a hardy line of defense.

3) Keep Food & Drinks Away From Your Machine

As you can probably guess, computers aren’t a big fan of liquids. Keeping food and drinks away from your hardware is a good idea if you’re trying to proactively protect your computer. Even the most careful people in the world experience mishaps, and one unfortunate bump of the elbow could cause a drink to go toppling all over your machine.

4) Don’t Turn Your Computer Off & On Too Often

Many believe that they should power down their computers nightly, and some think they should do so when they’re leaving the office for a meeting or lunch. In reality, it’s almost always fine to leave your computer running for days at a time. This reduces the stress and heating and cooling cycles that the equipment goes through, which can help boost the computer’s lifespan.

5) Keep Your Computer Cool

Many computers are great at generating more than enough heat as they run, so adding more to the mix isn’t the best idea. Be sure to keep your office at a cool, moderate temperature, and try to avoid using your laptop while you’re out soaking up the rays in 100 degree summer heat.

6) Get Regular Tune-Ups

Computers are a lot like cars, in the sense that they both need regular tune-ups to ensure they keep running smoothly. It’s a good idea to take in your computer at least once a year for a checkup, at the minimum. Even better, set up a maintenance plan so that professionals can monitor your equipment and help catch and prevent major issues before they rear their ugly head. If you’re looking for computer maintenance services in the San Marcos, TX or Austin, TX area, give the experts at tekRESCUE a call today (512-843-2835) to discuss your needs!

Everyone enjoys a good bargain, so buying a used computer can make sense financially. You get an older model, sure, but if you don’t need the latest and greatest cutting-edge technology, it may be sufficient for your needs. You don’t need a 2GB graphics card and 16GB of RAM to check emails, use Microsoft Office, and surf the web. That being said, when buying a used computer it’s not much different than buying a new computer. You need to know what you’re going to use it for and ensure that it will be capable of performing the tasks you intend to use it for. You can even get a great gaming machine with all the power you need, for a fraction of the price of buying new.

Portability

The first thing you should consider is portability: are you looking for a new desktop computer, or are you wanting a laptop to carry around with you? If you’re buying a laptop, make sure you check out the dimensions and weight to ensure it will fit in your preferred bag/briefcase/etc. and won’t be too heavy to lug around with you. Also, if you’re buying a laptop, you may wish to look up how much a new battery will cost—laptop batteries are notorious for their decreased ability to hold a charge as time goes on. You may well have to purchase a new battery so you can use it on the go without being tethered to a wall charger (unless the person/company you’re purchasing from has recently replaced the battery; be sure to ask).

Software Legitimacy

You may find a great deal on a classifieds site (such as Craigslist), from a local shop that carries refurbished laptops and desktops, or maybe from a friend who no longer needs the machine and is happy to let it go for a fair price. But before you commit, be sure the software that comes with the machine (especially the operating system) is genuine. The last thing you want is to get an alert one day that your license for Windows (or OSX, as the case may be) is not genuine, and it will cost a fair bit to reauthorize your machine with a legit key.

Warranty

Also keep in mind the warranty, or lack thereof. If you’re buying from Craigslist or a friend, you likely won’t get any kind of warrant, so if something goes wrong, you’ll have to pay for repairs out of pocket. If you purchase from a local or online seller, there’s a good chance they will offer some kind of warranty or service plan. Be sure to ask to make sure they offer some kind of protection if something goes wrong… peace of mind is always nice to have.

Test Run

When you’re buying a used machine, see if you can give it a test-run for a bit. Using it for a few hours is a great way to see how it handles and can save you headaches. If they won’t go for that, at least have them turn the machine on and show that everything is in proper working order. When looking over the computer, keep an eye out for any cracks or dents, dead pixels on the screen, broken peripheral ports (especially USB drive ports), etc.

It’s certainly possible to get a good deal on a used machine, but be thorough before purchasing or you may regret it. Also be sure to find out the asking price, and check online to make sure there’s not a better deal for a new machine.

If you’ve purchased a used machine (or a new machine!) and are having problems with it, bring it in to tekRESCUE for a free 15-minute diagnosis and quote! We’d be happy to look it over and let you know what the underlying potential issues could be, and how much they will cost to fix.

Featured image: “The Whole Family” by Patrick, used under CCBY

Windows XP is retiring in April. A lot of people are asking us how to repurpose an old laptop. Here are some things you can do with that old XP (or Windows Vista) laptop.

http://lifehacker.com/top-10-ways-to-repurpose-your-old-laptop-1522986846

One of our favorite articles.

Come see us at our new office location sometime: 102 Suttles Avenue. San Marcos, TX 78666.

Technology meets a .50 caliber rifle. The kind of stuff we like at tekRESCUE.

http://www.redmondpie.com/iphone-5c-meets-50-cal-rifle-filmed-on-iphone-5s-in-slo-mo-video/

Really good article about batteries on smartphones.

Randy

http://feedly.com/k/15RccmC

Well worth the read

http://m.lifehacker.com/5972780/6-common-tech-myths-that-cost-you-money