The Basics of PC Utilities Software

PC system utilities are programs that encompass several applications that help clean up and fix numerous computer issues. While most PC utility software programs differ greatly in the services that they offer, there are several basic functions common to the majority of these programs.

Registry Fix:

Your registry is constantly changing with updates, new registry entries and deletion of old entries. Because of this, there are usually numerous entries in your registry that are very old, useless or corrupted, and these entries can create numerous errors. Your registry is a vital part of your computer, and it can easily be harmful to your computer to delete registry files that are necessary. Instead of trying to clean the registry manually, PC utilities software can scan and detect which files need to be removed and which files need to stay without harming your computer.

On the chance that the removal does damage your computer, there is usually the option to restore the registry to a backup file that was made before the cleaning process to return your computer to normal.

Junk File Cleaning:

Temporary files, cookies, recycle bin files and much more are all junk files that needlessly take up space in your computer. Not only does this rob you of hard drive space, but it may also significantly slow down your computer. A quick scan and sweep of the junk files can free up gigabytes of space and speed up your computer.

System Optimization:

You may not be using the best settings or options for your computing needs. System optimization tools can improve your Internet browsing, save laptop battery life, increase speed and more. You can also set the options to optimize performance for work related activities, gaming, typical home usage, server use and more.

Defragmentation:

As you add, change and delete files on your computer, these files fragment and spread out over your system. The more changes, additions and deletions are made, the more fragments are created. When too many fragments are created and when too many files are fragmented, it can slow down computer speed since it needs to find all of the fragments of a file in order to use it. Defragmentation software finds these fragments and puts them back together to create a more complete file allowing the computer to easily find and access the file.

Error Detection:

Though you may not always notice, your system may be dealing with errors that can be affecting performance or damaging files, programs or the entire system. Error detection finds and resolves errors found in your system. If it can't resolve the issue, it can usually provide the user with information on the error as a reference to fix it.

Why Do I Need PC Utility Software?

One of the most important times to get PC utility software is when you are dealing with a slow and problematic computer. A good utility software can remedy several problems that may be causing performance issues. Though a good utility software is a good start, it's also a good idea to get a quality antivirus software to ensure that no viruses are causing the issue. Antivirus software will also provide constant virus protection to keep your computer safe from future infections.

PC utilities software is also beneficial for anyone who wants to regularly maintain their computer. Regular computer maintenance is important to keep your computer running well for as long as possible and utility software is a great asset to have for maintenance.

If the software doesn't run regular scans, it's a good idea to run a scan at least once every week. If you run into any viruses or moderate to severe errors, it's also a good idea to run the software directly afterward to resolve additional errors and clean up junk which may have been created during the error.

Image Credit: Grant Cochrane.

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Guide For Repairing Some Common Computer Problems

Repairing computers involves appropriate knowledge of composition and software. However, certain concerns can be solved by the user himself if he knows the right process. Understanding of the basics is an essential aspect since dependence on computers has increased immensely these days. Those who cannot do without a computer can save time and money through thorough study. Below are few problems with better solutions that a person must consider whenever he faces any issues.

1) Problem: System Freezing!

System freezing is a common problem that occurs due to faults in software or hardware. Therefore, one must be able to diagnose the problem properly. Such issues either emerge when the user attaches peripherals like scanner, printer etc. or due to driver conflicts. If one finds that the hard drive is the cause behind it, then it is definitely due to excessive heat or insufficient power supply. The solution to this problem is:

1. The computer should be turned off for a few minutes and then plugged in again. This allows resetting the hardware and clearing the memory.
2. If the system gets too hot, then one might have to open the computer. The user must first unplug the system and then open it.
3. After opening the system, one must check the temperature of a component called metal chassis. Also, one must test the fans on rear and front side and ensure that there is no dust at all. One can use a clean cotton cloth for this purpose.
4. If an additional hard drive has been installed in the system, one must avoid placing them adjacent to each other. This can lead to heating issues. If one desires extra storage, the hard drive should be installed in slots which have DVD or CD ROM drives. Also, one can opt for mounting brackets.
5. After completing the work, one should always check the cable connections and close the cabinet without exerting much pressure as this might damage the motherboard.
6. There are situations where system downloads a wrong driver during the Windows update process. This is why it is essential to monitor the status on regularly. After checking everything, one must switch the system on and check it is working fine. If the problem continues, it is advised to restore the computer to the previous configuration which might be helpful.
7. The process of restoring is: Start option- Programs- Click on accessories- Choose system tools- Click on restore. This will restore all the settings that one has changed.
8. It is also recommended to check the hard disk since over time it gets cluttered. This has a direct impact on the speed. The bad programs must be eliminated to get enhanced performance.

2) Problem: Loading Program and Applications!

There are instances when a program or application does not load properly. This is termed as the Blue Screen of Death. One must always delete such programs and scan the system with a reliable anti-virus.

3) Problem: Errors in Registry!

All the information related to settings of software as well as hardware is stored in the Windows Registry. Sometimes, the Registry is corrupted due to harmful programs. This can be solved in two ways; either by editing Registry or manually. You can also download PC Optimization software to do it for you. Or hire an expert in this and must always take back up before taking any action.

Image Credit: debspoons.

Author Bio:

The author works for www.axisdigitalworld.com and is an expert in computer repair Canberra. He can solve all kinds of computer problems within a short time span. Those who are not able to repair the systems can contact him and get the issue solved.

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7 Steps to Clean Up PC Quick and Easy

Would you like to have a Regular computer maintenance program that involves a list of how to clean up your pc from the inside out? Would you like to do that without ever having to take it into the shop for one of those expensive "tune ups." Here's what you need to do.

1. Clean up your PC. This is like any other chore. You have to dust it off and clean it up. 
2. Update your programs and applications.
3. Uninstall programs that you no longer use. And be sure that you aren't running anything like 2 antiviruses at the same time.
4. Reclaim space in your hard driver. Condense and clean up with the tools that Windows gave you like Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmenter.
5. Organize your folders so that you don't automatically lump everything into a Download folder as soon as you get it.
6. Back your files up to a Cloud file storage.
7. Consider setting a schedule with a regular program to do this for you like a registry cleaner.

That's all you have to do to keep it running smoothly or to prevent any major disasters if something bad does happen.

Author Bio:

Erin Walsh loves to blog about anything to do with technology. Thankfully, her "real" job is something that she loves to do, blog about technology. Erin's blog at PC Health Boost is centered around helping everday computer users solve common computer errors with solutions that anyone can troubleshoot. She offers all of her advice whether you use her pc utility software or not. Hop on over and find out how to speed up you pc, avoid screen freezes, fix dll errors, and more. http://www.pchealthboost.com/clean_up_pc.php.

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How to Be a Geek and Stay Healthy

If you are a geek, you know it. It's the way that you are and unlikely to change. You have probably always been a bookworm. You're good with technology and have often been called a genius by those who fumble with hooking their new stereo up or installing a new DVR for their television. This is all well and good, but your lifestyle could be putting you at risk. When you sit at a computer for extended periods of time day after day, your body could pay the price. Think about the risks.

Love Hate Computer Relationships:

While sitting at the computer is probably part of your job, you need to make sure you're doing it properly. Frequent breaks will help prevent repetitive strain injuries. Also you probably want to invest in a nice wrist rest and ergonomic keyboard and mouse to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from rearing its ugly head. You need to make a living, but you also want to make sure you have a good quality of life.

Also, especially if you're working from home, make sure you're doing all you can to reduce glare off your monitor and keep it wiped down so that it remains smudge and dust free. If you have natural light coming into the room, try to position the monitor so that it isn't facing the window, or have blinds and curtains that can block it out while you're working, so as to reduce the glare.

Did You Just Text Me From Across The Room?

A geek is nothing without technology. If you don't have it, you crave it and even feel anxiety. Remember the last time you left your phone somewhere and that feeling you got when you realized it? You're not alone. There are actually health issues related to cellular phone technology. Of course there's the EMF gives you a tumor study that is inconclusive. However, headaches migraines and sensitivity to light are symptoms of too much exposure to EMF. For men, your reproductive system may suffer adverse effects from excessive cell phone use. Of course, there's the obsessive or compulsive message checking disorder that affects some users. You know, the people who can't seem to go 10 minutes without taking out their phone to look at it. If you're laughing right now, you just realized that's you.

Take Steps to Protect Your Health:

Just because you're a geek, that doesn't mean that you have to be unhealthy. You can take simple steps to protect yourself. When it comes to gaming or watching television, limit your time to an hour a day, or try to play more active games like with the wii fit or Xbox Kinect. If you are on the computer as part of your job, don't sit for hours at a stretch, if you can get up every fifteen minutes or so it will help keep you healthier. Breaking up your day and getting some healthy exercise and if you dare, a bit of sunlight, can actually improve your mood and keep you working and gaming happier and healthier. At the end of the day, if you feel like you might be having some trouble sleeping, make sure you've powered down your computer and that your cell phone is far enough from you not to bother you.

Source: www.bestmedicaldegrees.com

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Blue Screen of Death - Take a Deep Breath

Don’t fret if your computer shows you the blue screen of death error. It isn’t the worst possible thing that can happen to your computer and it is fixable. The blue screen of death is caused by errors with memory, drivers, or the registry.

All three of these are sensitive parts of your computer; therefore, you should not tinker with them by yourself unless you are computer savvy. One wrong click and your computer could become unsalvageable.

With the right software, the blue screen error can be fixed and avoided without much work or stress on your part. Replacing your memory stick and upgrading your PC can fix memory errors. Replacing or updating old or outdated drivers can fix driver errors. Fixing registry errors can be difficult and should only be done by professionals or registry cleaner software.

In fact, you can invest in software that will take care of your memory errors, driver errors, and registry errors. If you are not as familiar with computers, this is definitely a smart option to keep your computer running smoothly.

Author Bio:

Erin Walsh is the Director of Public Relations for PC Health Boost. She loves to blog about everyday computer issues, by helping them users speed up their slow computer, clean up their pcs, update their registries. Fixing a blue screen of death error? No sweat. She has written several fixes over at her PC Health Boost blog that many newbies have been able to troubleshoot themselves.

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How Does A Computer System Generate So Much Heat?

It is arguably the most commonly known law of physics, that heat is produced by motion. The motion of atoms and molecules constantly moving together creates heat and this takes place in absolutely everything in this world. One of the most apparent examples of motion creating heat in the modern age is when we look at computer systems.

Internal fans:

For those who do not know a lot about electronic goods the constant humming noise of a desktop computer of a Playstation games console is an annoyance that will never be fully understood. The simple explanation is that these types of electrical devices rely on internal fans in order to prevent their internal moving parts from creating too much heat for the device to carry on work or much much worse to create so much heat it starts a fire.

Problems with large systems:

The small scale example of a laptop or of a domestic computer is one that can be related to by most people and gives a good indication of the problem and how manufacturers go about combating the problem. However, the real problems lie when you take into consideration a large commercial sized computer system that is required to power the database for an entire office block or to provide the internet for a business of endless size, of which there are thousands around the world.

The problem with these computer systems is that they incorporate hundreds of different devices that are required to be kept close together in order to do the job that they are designed to do. In fact, in the majority of data centres these individual devices are stacked on top of each other, both to save space in the building and also to save costs and resources spent on wires and extensions.

How to reduce excessive heat:

The big problem with this is that it is not only a large collection of devices all producing their own heat in an enclosed space, which creates a lot of heat, but having them all together in such a tight space means there is nowhere for the heat to go. The key to reducing the heat produced by a device is to ensure that it has enough space in which to disperse. A good example of this is next time that you use your Playstation cover up the fan and you will soon see that it will quickly begin to make a louder and louder sound. This is an indication of the fan trying harder to disperse the heat by increasing the RPM of the blades as it has nowhere to move the heat to.

In data centres there is a solution to the problem that in its own confusing and incoherent way adds heat to the system. Data centre cooling systems are in the own way devices that produce heat which is added to the mix; however they are designed to displace the heat of the other devices using fans. This works well enough at the moment to keep these kinds of systems working but soon it will be time for a new development to come into play. All indications so far point towards water aided cooling to be the future of the technology.

Image Credit: Flickr.

Author Bio:

Guest post contributed by Jay Simmons, a technology geek working as a computer engineer involved in UK data centre building for dedicated server storage for businesses & clients. A regular blogger around computer education, from simple things you might not have known, to more complex computer based education.

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Why Recycling Your Old Laptop Is Important?

In a fast-moving world such as technology, computers become outdated quickly and the need to dispose of them properly becomes more and more important. Figures from United Nations show that around 50 million metric tonnes of electrical waste is accumulated around the world every year.

Regardless of how much landfill space they can take up, computers contain hazardous chemicals such as lead oxide, mercury, nickel, zinc and cadmium. If these toxins and other heavy metals end up in landfill rather than a recycling centre, they can cause soil and water pollution and endanger wildlife. For example, cadmium can damage organisms in the soil which then affects the breakdown of organic matter. The substance has also been known to kill fish, which reduces their numbers.

At the same time as being a reason to produce laptops using less hazardous materials, it is a big reason to make sure your laptop is disposed of correctly when no longer needed.

What is computer recycling?

Laptop recycling is the process of either refurbishing a unwanted device or harvesting it for parts that can be of use elsewhere. Unwanted items can either be sent to a refurbishing business, a specialist recycling service or, if still in good working order, donated to schools and clubs in your area. Recycling can be as simple as donating to friends and family.

If the laptop is nearing the end of its life, be careful when donating to charity – it can prove a headache if they are left with, and have to dispose of, a non-functioning laptop.

At a recycling facility, the computer will be taken apart and its metals and plastics recycled where possible. Harmful materials will then be disposed of in the correct manner.

Recommended for you: Why Computers Recycling In Areas Should Be Done?

What are the benefits of recycling?

As mentioned earlier, proper disposal of unwanted electrical items avoids them unnecessarily clogging up landfill space and protects the environment. If you are donating you can also allow other people to buy laptops at an affordable price.

Many refurbishing companies give their revamped computers to school systems, correctional facilities and charity programs which allows the less fortunate to learn how to use them to prepare for their future.

What’s in my laptop?

There are some very valuable things that go into making a laptop; engineered plastics, steel, copper, aluminium and precious metals like gold, platinum and palladium. The recycling process attempts to recover these for use elsewhere once the device has reached the end of its life. In 2009, only an estimated 38 per cent of computers thrown away were recycled properly. The remainder end up in landfills where these materials are no longer available for reuse in the manufacturing of new products.

Often, the company you buy your laptop from will offer a free return service – ask before you buy. If this is not an option, your local council may run a scheme. For more details, go to the Environment Agency Website or contact your local authority. Whichever method you choose, make sure all of your personal data has been wiped from the machine before you give it away.

Image Credit: Flickr.

Author Bio:

Guest post contributed by Simon Jones. A technology geek who loves to give hints & tips when it comes to technology, not just using it, but also how to dispose of it correctly when the time comes, to help the environment. Simon also has a large knowledge of Business Software - BT Business Direct and helps people in business find the right software for their needs.

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Slow Computer? Learn How to Speed Up Your PC

Does your computer seem to be slower than normal? Has your PC crashed recently? Have you had the misfortune of experiencing the blue screen of death or a similar error?

There are a plethora of things that can cause your computer to crash or perform at an unreasonably slow level. You might have too many programs loading at startup.

The general rule is this: If you don't need it and it isn't vital to your computer, delete it. By following this rule, you will enable your computer to boot up faster and perform better.

Another thing that can cause your computer to run slower is a corrupted or bloated registry. If you have a Windows computer, then you have a registry.

The registry, like a meticulous bookkeeper, stores a record of everything you do on your computer. It keeps tabs on what programs you use on your computer, what websites you look at, what you download from the Internet. It stores all of this info on your computer’s hard drive and is notorious for producing corrupted or fragmented files.

Cleaning out your registry every now and then will help Speed up your PC.

Author Bio:

Erin Walsh is a technology junky and the Director of Public Relations at Boost Software. She enjoys blogging about topics in technology and occasionally guest posts on popular blogs about some of the most recent tech gadgets, windows installer errors, and other slow computer issues.

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Attributes Of A Great Web Browser For Students

Img.Credit:freedigitalphotos

Getting work done as a student involves constant research and a reliable web browser. Let's go over the attributes of a great web browser for students.

While many students first work with Internet Explorer when they are younger, other choices may prove more appealing. Recently, web browsers such as Chrome , TorchBrowser, and Firefox have gained broad audiences. Additional choices for mobile use mean students can continue working away from laptops and desktop computers.

A great web browser should make the basic functions easy to handle. Downloads should be a snap to start and they should be quick to locate once completed. Ideally, a user should be able to enable a master password to protect user names and passwords for websites. Keyboard shortcuts that aren't complicated make work flow faster for research throughout the day.

Tab Management:

The ability to manage tabs is another important factor for students. Researching a paper can involve the use of multiple tabs during a browsing session. Firefox's ability to make tab groups as separate sections is a plus.

Speed is an essential attribute as well. A student can't waste time waiting for a browser to load forever. Loading pages, even with multiple tabs open, shouldn't take longer than a few seconds. Gregg Keizer of Computerworld notes that Google recently added a speed boost to the latest version of Chrome. Another useful tool is a speed dial feature like the one in Opera. The speed dial displays a user's favorite sites on opening the browser.

Synchronization:

Synchronizing browsers between different computers is a must-have feature for students. This is useful if commuting between school and home or working on a lab partner's computer. It's also handy if one switches between operating systems like a Mac at school and a Windows PC at home. Firefox Sync allows a student to share passwords, tabs, history and bookmarks between various computers. A user signing into a Google account on Chrome can opt for synchronizing too.

Mobile browsers allow students to learn in the library, to learn right outside of class or to learn on the go. A mobile browser should be robust and able to open a student's essential websites properly. It should also let a user switch between an iPad, a smartphone and a laptop seamlessly. Mobile versions of Chrome and Firefox are available. Opera is installed on many mobile devices. Dolphin is another useful mobile browser for tablets and smartphones.

Customization:

Extensions and add-ons bring useful features to a web browser. A great web browser should have a broad range of extensions and add-ons with helpful user reviews. Look for extensions and add-ons that enhance research and improve social networking. Others can block websites when students don't want to be distracted or check for grammar errors.

Students should also check into a web browser's privacy features,

• If sharing a computer, it should be easy to sign out of a web browser.
• Erasing cookies and browsing history should be fast.
• Anonymous tabs and windows should be quick to implement.

Everyone loves to personalize their computers and mobile devices. A web browser can be just as eye-catching with customized themes featuring colorful graphics and art. The web browser should allow users to easily customize fonts and background colors as well.

Selecting the right web browser can contribute to a student's productivity. Look over the attributes of a great web browser for students to find a good fit.

Author Bio:

Sarah Anderson is guiding users of all ages how to use TorchBrowser.com to download torrent files. A youthful face for web browsing and downloading in the hi-tech world.

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Reasons You Would Need To Convert Wma To Mp3

WMA and MP3 files are very similar because they sound nearly the same in terms of quality, are both relatively small files and they only support audio information. At the same time, there are many reasons why you should convert a WMA into an MP3. This is especially true if you aren’t running the Windows OS or if you enjoy using mobile technology.

Apple Computers:

The Apple OS has exponentially increased in popularity due to the iPhone, iPod and iPad. While WMAs can be used on an Apple computer, it can be fairly difficult. This is because this OS is not natively meant to use these files since they were made for a Windows environment. You can get around this by using a special Mac WMA player, but the player just temporarily converts the WMA into a suitable format for the Mac. This means that you often need to wait a few seconds for this temporary conversion to finish before the file will play.

It’s much easier to play MP3 files within an Apple environment. QuickTime easily supports these files and you don’t need any special software.

Mobile Devices:

While there are some mobile devices that can play WMA files, mostly Windows devices, the vast majority of tablets and smartphones are meant to work with MP3s. This is often because MP3 files are somewhat easier to play and they have become very popular due to overwhelming support from many Apple mobile devices. MP3s also don’t have a security protocol, which means that the programs needed to play them are much easier to build when compared to making a WMA player.

If you have an Apple, Android or BlackBerry device, then it’s a good idea to convert your WMAs into MP3s. It’s a good idea to convert the files into MP3s anyway because every mobile device, even Windows ones, support MP3 files due to their popularity.

Smaller Footprint:

Though they are both relatively small formats that don’t require much memory, MP3s are often smaller than WMAs. Not only that, but their quality is similar in most situations. There’s no reason to use WMAs if space is an issue. You can often reduce your media library by about 50MB to 100MB by converting your files, depending on how large your media library is.

The reason why MP3s are smaller is because they disregard inaudible noise. WMAs will keep this information in the file, but MP3s will erase it so that the file has to support less overall data.

Somewhat Better Quality:

While both of these formats are similar when it comes to quality, many people consider MP3s slightly better. This is usually the case if the file is set to a moderate or high bit rate. Some people can’t tell the difference, but many audiophiles agree that MP3s are superior to WMAs.

The only time when this is different is if the bit rate is set very low. WMAs tend to be better in this scenario, but the difference is slight.

iTunes Support:

Many people love using iTunes even if they don’t have an Apple device because this makes it very easy to manage your media library. While there are other interfaces that offer similar functions and capabilities, few programs have been able to rival iTunes in terms of popularity and overall support. The problem is that iTunes is fairly exclusive when it comes to file support.

iTunes will not accept WMA files. You must convert the audio files into MP3s if you want to add them to iTunes.

Versatility:

WMA files are not as versatile as MP3s. This isn’t because WMAs are inferior. It’s because MP3s have much more support. MP3 files can be used with many media library interfaces, mobile devices, editing programs and so on. WMAs are sometimes supported by these programs, but not as often as MP3s. If you want a file that is very versatile, then you need to convert your files into MP3s.

Conclusion:

While both formats are great and have their own advantages, many people consider the MP3 a superior format. This is because the files are usually smaller, sound better, work with most mobile devices and have more support. If you want all of these advantages, then just convert your WMA files. The entire process shouldn’t take long since most audio files are relatively small.

Author Bio:

Katelyn Roberts is a video and music blogger who use KoyoteSoft when creating videos and sharing them online. KoyoteSoft.com can convert wma to mp3 with ease.

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5 Data Backup & Disaster Recovery Tips

Backup your files on discs and be sure to store them in a secure location off-site.

Whether you own a large corporation or run a small business from home, it is essential that you are aware of the Importance of data backup and disaster recovery. Unfortunately you can never predict when disaster is going to strike in the work place. A disaster can be anything from system failure, to damage caused by a flood, fire or earthquake. Many businesses that experience a disaster never fully recover. Follow our simple tips below to ensure that your business does not become one of them.

1.) Primary back-up solutions:

Your customer database is one of your most valuable assets. Without it your business may not be able to function. This is why it is essential to make back-up copies of your database as well as other important files and information. Back-up copies can be made on disks, USB sticks and external hard drives. Understandably many business owners are wary of copies being made, especially of confidential data, so it is important that these copies are stored in a secure location off-site.

2.) Secondary back-up solutions:

Larger businesses will be able to store back-up copies of their files in an off-site data centre, but this is not an affordable option for many small to medium sized businesses. Instead why not Store your files on the cloud? This virtual form of storage, known as cloud computing, enables businesses to upload their files to a safe place on the internet. These files can be accessed remotely using a username and password.

Cloud computing is an affordable solution for small to medium sized businesses. Shop around to find the host offering the best price and be sure to check their terms and conditions. Using cloud storage will give you the peace of mind knowing that your files are safe, even if your physical IT infrastructure has been damaged.

3.) Use a virtual server:

A virtual server is capable of hosting a replica of your physical environment. It can be accessed remotely and often works out much cheaper than having a physical back-up server. If something unfortunate has happened to your workplace, you can simply access the virtual server within minutes from an off-site location.

4.) Create a data retention policy:

All businesses should have a data retention policy in place. This policy should inform your employees of the importance of backing up their data. It should tell them what data they need to back up, when they should do it and how it needs to be done. Business owners should schedule regular back-up sessions and appoint a member of their team to oversee it. If you fail to teach your staff the importance of backing up data, you may find that you are left with out of date copies of your files, which will not be of any worth to your business in the event of a disaster.

External hard drives are great for backing-up data but it is essential that they are kept in a secure location, especially if they contain confidential data.

5.) Test your plan:

It is important to create a disaster and recovery plan that is clear, concise and easy for your staff to follow. A step-by-step guide is always useful. Appoint a leader to oversee the whole procedure as you may be busy doing other things like contacting your insurance company.

We cannot stress enough how important it is to regularly test your plan. It would be no good to find out that your back-up copies do not work, or that you cannot gain access to your virtual server in the middle of a disaster. The more you test your plan, the less likely you are to face problems recovering your data, should disaster strike your workplace.

The key to successful data back-up and disaster recovery planning is to always plan for the worst. It is much better to spend time and money preparing for a disaster than to find that you are left with no resources to run your business if something unfortunate happens.

Author Bio:

Written by SAS London, digital agency based in the United Kingdom.

Image credits: bobbigmac&miss karen

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Your Life Is In That Computer. Back It Up Properly!

Creative Commons image source

Computers are everything these days, in quite a literal sense. They are no longer just used to write papers or complete some work project. They are a portal into our social lives with social media, they contain and play all of our music, and, perhaps most importantly, they store most of our digital pictures. It feels good to have all your information stored in one, easy-to-access machine, but there is always the fear of losing the information. That is why now, more than ever, it is important to back up your computer.

But, what files should you backup and what options are available when it comes to Properly saving your important data? The simple answer is that you should back up whatever files are important to you. As far as options that are available, most experts recommend that you use the rule of threes when it comes to storage. This means that you should have a local backup, such as a physical DVD or external hard drive, you should have an off-site backup like an online cloud storage account, and you should have a copy that is saved on your computer. Although this may sound excessive, you can rest assured that you will never lose any of your important data.

Files Can Become Corrupted And Unreadable:

There are a variety of ways a computer can lose information, and, with digital media, it is all too easy to lose information. One of the easiest ways to lose your pictures is if they become corrupted. Only a tech junkie would be able to describe exactly how it happens, but, in layman’s terms, something about the file becomes unplayable. It could be as something as simple as the name of the file or the code that allows the file to be displayed on the computer. This can happen for a variety of reasons; one of which is as simple as updating the software on your computer. This random loss of personal multimedia should lead you to want to back up those files.

Physical Loss Or Damage Is A Concern:

Physical loss is another way that you can lose the files on your computer. There are a couple of different ways to physically lose your computer and the first of those ways is damage. There could be a flood, a short in the electrical system of your apartment or you could just drop the laptop out in public. A powerful magnet could even wipe the computer clean in the right circumstances. It doesn’t matter if you have a desk top computer at home or you travel around with a laptop, there are a variety of ways to physically damage your computer to the point where you lose your information.

Theft Happens:

Theft is another horrific way to lose your personal info. I have heard countless stories of people going on vacation with their laptop so they could take as many photos and videos as possible. Then they’d store the info on their computer to free up space in their camera and, boom; they lose their computer to theft; a lifetime worth of memories gone.

Since you can lose you data physically to damage or theft it is better to use a cloud backup service. A service where you can upload all your info to the internet so you can access it at any time and there is no risk of physical loss.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Frasco is the Community Manager for the MyReviewsNow website. She wrote this blog post about having the best backup software for your computer. You can read more at our http://www.myreviewsnow.net website.

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Last Minute Tweaks To Your Computer

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When you’re a gamer, there is nothing like the feeling of starting up a new computer for the first time. Whether you bought one pre-built from a site or assembled it piece by piece yourself, hitting the power button that first time is great. And while you might be content to start playing on the machine as is, there are a few last upgrades and tweaks you can make to your computer to get even more speed and power out of it. Follow these tips for an even better gaming experience on your new PC.

Add some fans

Fans require very little power and can not only help you Increase the speed of your computer, but its shelf life, as well. Fans will keep everything running nice and smoothly and hopefully keep that beast of a graphics card running in tiptop shape. Keeping the heat low will also make your computer work less and perform better. Unfortunately, water-cooling is too hard to integrate at the last minute, so fans are the go-to options for keeping an already built computer cool.

Recommended: How Does A Computer System Generate So Much Heat?

Now overclock that processor:

If you have an upgraded fan system or water-cooling, feel free to overclock your processor a little bit. High-end processors and motherboards make overclocking a breeze, and even upping it a little bit can give you a big performance increase. If you’re feeling a little more daring and don’t mind replacing your processor every year or so, clock it up a bit more. But for the most part, a few slides up will be all you need.

Make sure your monitor is HD ready

After sinking a large amount of money into your computer, it can be a bummer to realize your monitor is not up to par. Today’s graphics are all in stunning high definition and require a DVI or HDMI connection to fully appreciate. In fact, a lot of graphics cards today don’t even support VGA, which is what most old monitors use. Fortunately, HD monitors are relatively inexpensive. There are also several to choose from, so getting exactly what you’re looking for isn’t hard.

Get an SSD

While relatively new, and still a little expensive, solid state drives are the way to go if you really want to add one final speed boost to your computer. They don’t have too much storage space on them, but booting from an SSD and installing your most popular games on it will give you increased performance across the board over a hard drive. They are extremely quiet, too!

Get the most out of your Internet

For online games, a slow Internet can make even the fastest computer obsolete. To prevent a slow or spotty Internet connection from hurting your gaming, invest in a network accelerator. Network accelerators are easy to install and can give you the boost you’re looking for – wirelessly or hardwired. The standard HBA on your motherboard is fine if you aren’t having problems, but even a fast Internet can become faster with a specialized HBA and network card.

Author Bio:

Geoff is a gamer and computer nerd who loves to write about his passions, as well. He turns to companies like lsi.com to learn more about cutting-edge trends and products in the data and computing sphere.

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Why Computers Recycling In Areas Should Be Done

The reality today is that electronic wastage is becoming rampant. With the rising number of products being manufactured, you can also expect a boom in the products that accumulate as trash once they are out of trend. Computers recycling or healthy computing are being promoted heavily because people have to act now before everything is too late.

Citizens do represent something, whether it is an idea or a belief. However, it seems that environmental responsibilities are hard to commit to for some whose hearts are not in the campaign itself. With something as basic as reducing, reusing and recycling, others fail to meet these demands thus they fail to see how it will impact the world.

The thing about gadgets is that they can easily become obsolete when updates are continually introduced to the market. When units are left to rot and they pile up in landfills, they do not really go away on their own. This wastage should be avoided by the consumers themselves.

Recommended for You: Why Recycling Your Old Laptop Is Important?

On the end of the consumers, they become too curious enough that they buy without thinking twice about the rest of the things that they have. If there is an infectious trend in buying gadgets, do not give in. You are not only acknowledging the passing fancy, you are also contributing to the amount of waste that could cause serious problems.

Although gadgets are very innovative and useful nowadays, still, you can settle with what you currently have. It is not as important just because you want to maintain this certain status level. You have to be mindful of the depleting resources, the landfills being filled to the brim and the toxicity that some materials release to the environment.

Quite frankly, the improper disposal of electronic waste is very dangerous to humans and to the environment. Moreover, the wastage itself is quite a shame because the redeeming factor is hard to come by given its complexity. What could have been a space for more useful waste is now taken up by the said devices.

The thing about buying too many things given a short span of time is that you can easily neglect what you have. As a result, you also manage to pile these unused items on top of one another as they become one big mound of trash. What is even worse is if majority of the pile are electronic gadgets and devices that can be recycled instead.

Utilization is an advantageous activity that can be used as an initiative to maintain sustainable development. Gadget users must be educated that there are toxic components with those little machines that run their unit. If ready to be disposed, experts need to take out any harmful component to ensure that further disposal will already be safe.

Computers recycling are not just about handling your electronic gadgets. The bigger issue is about knowing how to time your purchases and weighing the necessity of each. If you learn to become a responsible buyer, then eventually, you can contribute to the wellness of the environment.

Author Bio:

Kamal Ahmad Is young entrepreneur who love to write on tech gadget. And believe on green technology, he has the view that its every person’s responsibility to take part in saving earth by promoting green tech. He blogs on http://yourpcuniverse.com and tweets @YourPcUniverse

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Maintaining Your Computer So Your Computer Can Maintain You

If your computer starts performing different than normal, or running very slow, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to buy a new computer. Like cars, computers also need tune-ups and require regular maintenance. There are applications that will clean your computer and make it run like new.

PC system utilities can repair a hard drive, generate free space on a hard drive, recover data, optimize processes and most of all clean your computer registry! Utilities applications will warn the user of any viruses or other issues that are potentially hazardous to your computer’s functionality to include hard drive errors, security issues, inefficient settings, or any files that may need deleted to free up disk space.

Computer technicians use the Utilities Applications when beginning diagnostic processes, so when you purchase this software, you are basically purchasing your own computer technician! Running utilities regualarly and using diagnostics tools, your computer will last longer, experience very few slowdowns and improve the overall performance, saving the user a lot of frustration.

What to look for in system utilities

System utilities defragment hard drives and remove errors, while some mainly focus on repair and recovery. If you have the same computer issues over and over, then you are familiar with the main problems your system has, and you can purchase the PC utility application that is ideal for your specific needs. The best utilities application, however, manages a wide range of issues.

Software for specific needs include:

Repair/Recovery-Applications such as spyware, adware and Trojan can often be infected with viruses, because they are attached to unsecure websites. Repair and recovery can fix errors and remove these viruses to stop your computer from slowing down or stop working. This application will also remove files that are not necessary and erase internet history, cookies and temporary files from internet.

Management and Diagnostics-This application will uninstall programs that you do wish to have on your computer and keep your computer running at optimum speed. This is the best application for managing your start up programs and will solve issues before they cause serious problems.

Ease-This utility makes computer maintenance easy! This will incorporate easy to use features and easy to navigate interface.

Recommended: 10 Easy Steps to Speed Up Your Computer!

Optimization will give you utilities that can tweak settings for memory and internet options which will ensure your computer runs at optimum functionality. This will provide the quickest and most noticeable performance of your computer and you can adjust the settings for your Windows operating system.

PC utilities assist in fixing a broad range of problems and help maintain your computer’s functions. This application will keep you from having to take your computer to be fixed by a professional. This software provides a good amount of information so you can repair and maintain your computer yourself. This software will improve the efficiency and performance.

Of course there are numerous, additional software applications such as file sharing like Rocket Software, etc. When you choose the right application for your computer, be sure to do your research on the specific programs. Sometimes you will have to pay for these applications, but you may be able to find some free downloads!

Author Bio:

Missouri resident C. Jones devotes much of her writing to software applications when she is not occupied with her medical profession.

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Why Static Is Your Enemy When Building A Computer

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Have you ever reached out to open a door or even gone to shake another person's hand and been unexpectedly zapped by static electricity? In these instances it can be annoying, slightly embarrassing and a little bit sore, but generally harmless. However, for those thinking about building their own PC, it can be quite dangerous.

While it won't really do any damage to you, it could ruin the interior components to your PC, which it is so important to remove any threat of it before you even think about touching your PC. You may have heard people say that you have to 'ground' yourself before you go to build a PC or touch any of its inner workings. Well, this is true and it can really pay dividends, as the last thing you want to do is to be doing the final tweaks to your PC build only to ruin everything with a static charge!

But exactly why can static be so damaging to computers? Well, it's because you may not even realise that you have transmitted a static charge. You and I only notice it when you experience that familiar jolt of electricity, but this only occurs when it reaches over 3500-4000 volts. Anything below this is not felt, but it can still transfer to your PC and do damage.

For weeks or even months your PC may work perfectly, so you will be happy that your new PC built has gone swimmingly. Then, one day, a programme may freeze or a component may cause strange things to happen with your computer. You could put this down to a faulty part, but in actual fact it is much more likely that it has been caused by a static charge.

So, how can you prevent this from happening? Here are just a few solutions to this issue:

1.) Invest in antistatic products

When working on your PC build you may want to use an antistatic pad that you can lay your PC case or any components on. This will keep everything grounded so there is no risk of static building up, whether it goes above or remains below the threshold. You can find these products online now.

2.) Wear an antistatic wrist strap

Even the best in the business will tell you that antistatic wrist straps can be a real godsend to anyone looking to build their own PC. They can take the worry of static related issues off the table altogether and can make things much easier for you.

3.) Work in a prepared area

You should never work on your PC in an area that is conducive to static, as this will only cause problems. Instead, work on a bare surface with no items that can build up static. A wooden table is ideal for this, and you should ensure that plastic items and metallic products have all been removed from the area. It can also be best to stand up when working on your computer, as chair (especially rolling chairs) can be great conductors for static electricity.

Do you know of any other ways to limit the risk of a static charge when working on your PC?

Author Bio:

Guest post contributed by Simon Belfield, a small business blogger who loves building PCs. Looking forward to his next build with dabs external hard drives.

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A New Lease Of Life: Tuning Up An Ailing PC

Watching your PC grind to a halt is a frustrating experience for any technology user. It can feel like the gradual slow-down process begins as soon as you plug your shiny new device in for the first time: a few seconds longer to boot up here, a crashed program there, and before you know it you’re keeping a good book on standby to occupy you during the endless loading screens.

However, PC slowdown isn’t something you need to resign yourself to. There are a number of strategies you can use to help you get your computer back in peak condition, with all of them significantly cheaper than buying a new machine.

Run a Tune-Up Program

Tune-up programs are all-in-one solutions designed to identify and fix common causes of sluggish PC operation. A little like a virus checker, the idea behind the tune-up program is usually that you simply hit “run” and go make a coffee while the software works its magic. Common targets for tune-up programs include your registry (a collection of settings and system files that your computer needs to run, which can become clogged with junk very quickly once you’ve installed and deleted a few programs), and any temporary file folders that should have been emptied but haven’t.

On the whole, tune-up software can provide a quick fix for those who want to get their machine back to something approaching full strength as quickly as possible. However, they are rarely a permanent solution, as the problems they fix can often reoccur. In addition, some tune-up programs are designed to run permanently in the background while you work, and can cause as many speed issues as they resolve.

Clean the Gunk From Your PC

You’d probably be amazed at how dirty the inside of your PC can get, and you might also be surprised what effect this can have on performance. Cleaning your computer requires a degree of technical know-how, and generally requires you to go through the nerve-wracking process of opening your machine’s casing. However, Learning to clean your computer is good practice, and can be a prudent step toward keeping your computer healthy for as long as possible.

The best way to go about cleaning your device is with a can of compressed air. These computer technician mainstays look a little like a deodorant can, squirting compressed air from a small nozzle at the top. This is great for working on the insides of a computer, which can be very sensitive and susceptible to static electricity from your hands. Make sure you don’t use too much on delicate components like fans, however. Once you’re finished with the compressed air, use a cotton swab to gently prise any remaining grime loose.

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Use a Computer Repair Service

If tweaking your computer yourself fails, then contracting a computer repair service may well be your best bet. Computer repairs aren’t just limited to major faults: many providers offer tune-up or tweaking services designed to improve the condition of a working but slow PC.

Sending your computer away to be worked on can seem like a big risk, especially if your machine has personal or sensitive data on it. Happily, some companies now offer online computer repairs, whereby technicians can examine and work on your computer using remote access software. As well as being convenient, this means that you don’t risk having your machine damaged in transit, or having guests visit potentially sensitive areas of your workplace.

Author Bio:

Jann Webb is a computer enthusiast and writer. She’s learned the hard way that getting the professionals in to do your computer repairs can be a smart move.

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Could Computers Ever Replace Schools?

Most children studying in western schools will use a computer at some point in their education. In fact, online education is now actually part of the curriculum with a class dedicated to learning computer skills – IT.

More and more schools are dropping the chalk and picking up the mouse to integrate online with learning, but could computers ever really replace institutionalised schooling?

Most universities have some kind of portal that acts as a hub. Which usually includes taught materials, relevant information and timetables – these hubs could almost eliminate the need to go to the class at all.

If each student had a computer in class, it could save universities a lot of money that they would normally spend on huge lecture halls and projector screens – but would each student learning through a computer really make for Interactive education and could this filter through the chain down to primary education?

Long Distance:

Online learning allows for long-distance learning, meaning that location would no longer be an issue for people that live in remote areas.

Free Education:

The first thing most people do when they want to find something out is Google it. The amount of information on the internet is absolutely staggering and there is actually a growing trend of teachers and academics breaking away from traditional methods of teaching and uploading educational and engaging videos online. With themes ranging from algebra to aeronautical engineering, millions of people are tuning in to learn online. If this trend continues, there would be no limit to the amount of people being taught at one time and new students could access the videos whenever they like as the videos would remain online.

What’s stopping it?

All of this sounds great, so what is it that hasn’t allowed for this to happen already?

Well, of course, a computer could never really replace the benefits of physically being taught by a teacher and interacting with other children in class.

A lot of a child’s experience of discipline comes from being taught at school. Learning that you have to listen, learning that you must let others talk, patiently waiting for your turn to talk and hearing other people’s ideas all comes when being taught in class.

This allows a child to develop a lot of their characteristics, traits and life skills that they may not achieve by being taught by a computer and a mouse all day.




Author Bio:
Rich finds the development of computers and internet devices interesting as he works for a company called Case Comms that installs Industrial Routers

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Choosing Good Home Theater Speakers

One of the main components of home automation is a home theater, and being able to control the home theater from a universal remote. As people design their home theater, they want to choose a good speaker system that provides quality and well-balanced sound. Consider the following tips when searching for high-quality speakers as you plan your home theater.

Start Simple

Think about purchasing a pre-matched speaker system. Even if you decide not to buy this kind of a system, reading about how they are assembled will help you with your purchase.

Use a speaker system that integrates well into your home automation. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice on how to program the speakers so that you can control them from anywhere in your home

Additionally, if you can connect the speakers to the wiring of your home security system, your home security will be more effective.

• Mix and Match Speakers.
• Not all electronics brands know good speaker design. If pre-matched speakers do not meet your needs and you would rather shop a la carte, be sure that they will work well with the amplifier that will be powering them.

The following is a list of the speakers you will want to have:

1. A center channel speaker. This will sit above or below your TV. 
2. Front left and right speakers, which will flank your TV.
3. Two or more surround speakers, which sit behind the seating area.
4. One or two powered subwoofers. Do not let this overpower the center channel and front speakers.
5. Two more speakers if you have a receiver that can hold two more speaker channels.

For a cleaner look, you may want to consider placing your speakers in the wall or ceiling. If you happen to go with wall or ceiling speakers, make sure that the wall or ceiling will not affect the sound quality.

Additionally, as you connect speakers to your home automation system, make sure you know how all the automated components work together. Learn how to operate the entire home theater and separately turn on the security system. Be able to turn on the speakers without having the TV on or turn off the invasion alarm without turning off security access.

Match the Speakers to Your Room and TV

It is just as important to match speakers to the room and TV as it is for the speakers to match each other. If your TV is in a multi-purpose room, use smaller speakers that blend into the overall room design and are out of the way.

On the other hand, if you have an entire room devoted to a home theater, you can certainly use larger speakers to fill the room with high-quality sound.

Here are a few more considerations for choosing speakers:

• Room layout and shape of your room This is one of the factors that will help you determine where to place your speakers. Knowing your room layout will help you place speakers away from foot traffic.
• Whether to use speakers as furniture If the speakers are too large to hide with couches and shelves, make them part of the overall room design. Your guests will see the speakers and expect the great sound you know the speakers will provide. 
• Acoustics Be mindful when placing your speakers so that the sound feels part of what you’re watching. If you place the left and right speakers too far away from the TV, they will distract you from the action on the TV.

Good sound quality is essential to a home theater. If you spend time researching good speakers, not only will you enhance your home theater and automation system, but you’ll increase the overall value of your home.

Author Bio:

Lindsey Patterson is a freelance writer who specializes in technology and home automation. For more information on home security systems check out Vivint reviews.

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