Computer Ace:Blog

My name is Howard DeAlvarado and I run a computer service company located in Phoenix, Arizona. I have over 18 years experience and A+ certification. I would be glad to help you with your computer, networking or internet needs. You can ask me questions...

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ProTip: Want to laugh in the face of ransomware? Keep good backups! There are over 4000 ransomware attacks per day in the US. No matter how vicious the ransomware attack, you will be able to recover when you keep frequent backups. Specially if the backups are disconnected from your computer when not in use.

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ProTip: Got a slow, out-dated wireless router? You could be at risk. A new, properly setup router can improve your wireless and internet connection speeds and do a better job at keeping threats out. It may also have better features like parental controls and isolated guest access.

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Security ProTip

Be sure to get antivirus software if you have a Windows 10 computer. Windows 10 doesn’t need antivirus you say? Not true! Recent studies show that Windows 10 built in security is not nearly enough to protect you from arising online threats. I recommend Avast or Bitdefender.

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Expensive Mac Myths. Why are some Mac users tossing their computers before they should? http://gocomputerace.com/some-expensive-mac-myths/

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Safeguard your kids

In 2014, there were 5,042 cases of human trafficking reported in the United States. Parents, please take a few minutes to read the article below about safeguarding your kids from human traffickers. We can also help by applying parental controls and increasing your home internet security. Call us for more info at 623-680-6827. http://www.baylor.edu/mediacommunications/news.php?action=story&story=161792

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If you are looking for better ways to backup your data, call Computer Ace! 623-680-6827 http://gocomputerace.com/  #gocomputerace   #computerrepair  #affordablecomputerrepair #computerhelp #computers #glendaleaz  #peoriaaz   #phoenixaz  

[computerace]

A good reason to buy a computer soon

Hi everybody, I hope you are doing well. Today I would like to talk about why you should buy a computer soon. The answer is: Windows 8. Confused? Let me explain. Windows 8 is being pushed by Microsoft just like every other version of Windows they've released. If you are a techie like me, you've noticed a pattern of every other version of Windows being a complete dud. Well we're on the dud version again. Ex: Windows XP (good), Vista (bad), Windows 7 (good), now it's Windows 8 (bad again). Granted, there are going to be some people that like it. Just like there were some who liked Vista. If you've been happy with Vista, that's good, I'd say even lucky. However good experiences with Vista were not the norm. Some people may like and will have good luck with Windows 8. However, I seriously doubt this will be case with most. The reason you should buy a new computer soon, if you've been thinking about it, is that Windows 8 is coming out Oct. 26 and it will be installed, by default, on every new computer system. In other words, if you decide you don't like Windows 8 and want Windows 7 instead you will have to special order your computer and after a while (I'd say about 6 months) you won't be able to get it with a new system at all and will have to buy it separately, then install it over Windows 8. Which will be expensive and very time consuming. If you are on the fence about Windows 8 and are wondering if there are any real benefits to it, let me assure you, there are almost none. If anything there is less functionality due to it trying to be more simplified and ends up being harder to navigate. What used to take 1 or 2 clicks, may take 5 or 6. There is a demo of Windows 8 on the net called Metro7 which allows you to see what it's like to use Windows 8 on your current PC. Unfortunately, it has spyware built into it, so I can't recommend it. You can however go to your local computer store and see Windows 8 for yourself if you are still interested. BTW if you are wondering what computer to get, let me make a quick recommendation. I would go with HP or Dell (good warranty/tech support and decent quality components) and with the i3, i5 or i7 Intel processors. You can expect to pay about $500 on up for a decent system. I can also help find the right computer for you or even transfer your data and setup your new system.

[computerace]

Traveling light

A client recently e-mailed me and said she was going on a long trip and which type of computer I would recommend. Below is my reply:

Here are your main choices: Laptop: -a little heavy (depending on size) -greatest compatibility and functionality (just about anything a desktop can do) Netbook: -less expensive -fairly light, small -no CDROM/DVD drive (so no watching DVDs on the plane). -may not have a wired port for internet, usually wireless -few USB ports for accessories -can use iTunes, Napster or Netflix for music and movies. -small keyboard (yet better than a touch screen keyboard) -you can still attach a printer to print -Cell internet compatible (internet anywhere there is a signal, like your cell phone) iPad: -very light, small -no drives or USB ports (at all) -wireless only -limited applications (Mac store only) -iTunes for music and media -touch screen only (not so great for typing) -no printing unless mac compatible and wireless. -Cell internet compatible All can do internet and email. It really depends on what you plan on doing when you travel. If you're not sure and want to keep your options open, go with the regular laptop. You can always get a small one. If the weight is a concern and you just want music, internet and email, then the netbook or iPad will do. I'm pretty sure they all have applications that will allow you to read one form or another of digital book. So a Kindle may not be necessary. Another thing to consider is with a netbook if it gets lost or stolen or just breaks, it will be less of a monetary loss. If you do go the laptop route, be sure to get it insured and/or get accidental repair coverage.

[computerace]

Free to fool you

I see alot of people fall for the "free" trick. It seems like just about everyone is a sucker for that word. Specially on the internet. Free music, free coupons, free chance to win an ipad. It goes on and on. Some free offers are legit but way too many are not. How can you tell the difference? Read on! "FREE" offer check list:

Ask yourself "what's the catch"? If you can't figure out how the company benefits from the offer or if they want too much of your personal information, stay away!

Read the fine print. I know, it's tedious. Some online companies have alot of legal jargon in their disclaimers but you may be surprised at what you find there.

Can you take advantage of the offer without having to download or install software? Here's the real clincher. Every time you install software on your computer you run the risk of infection. Do you trust the company you are downloading from? Why is it necessary to install software in order to take advantage of the offer?

Some examples: Coupon Bar. I see this one everywhere. Promises free coupons but delivers nothing but spyware. Most websites offer coupons that you can print right from their webpage. Why would you have to download software in order to do that? Another example is Limewire. Offers free music and other downloads but creates a huge security risk for your computer (they're facing legal action btw).

Keep in mind if you do decide to install software, watch how your computer reacts. If it suddenly starts acting poorly, gives you pop-ups or error messages, uninstall that software immediately.

[computerace]

Rivatuner: your video card's best friend

Hi all, I have a theory. Over-heat damage has got to be the number 1 video card killer. Just about every time I replace a video card it's because the card can't cool itself properly for one reason or another.

If you have a video card that is starting run hot or if you notice errors or crashes after so much time in a game or a 3D app try Rivatuner.

Rivatuner is definitely not for beginners but if you feel that you are a power-user or at least tech-savvy, check it out. The website has alot of information on how to keep your video card cool. You may get a lot more life out of your investment.

http://www.guru3d.com/category/rivatuner/

Hit me up if you need help too.

[computerace]

Integrity

Is there such a thing in business anymore. I would like to think so but I've heard so many horror stories from my clients that have been burned in the past that I'm starting to wonder. Is bottom line the only thing companies care about nowadays? What happened to "the customer comes first"?

I would like to think I have integrity when dealing with my clients. My policy is; if I wouldn't want something done to me as a client, I wouldn't do it to my clients. Do you agree? What does "integrity" mean to you?

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Wireless alternative

I tried using a powerline network adapter a few days ago and I'm pretty impressed. It was fast and real easy to setup. I tried it because I was getting pretty fed up with how unreliable wireless is. Thankfully I was pleasantly surprised. It's a wonder why more people don't use it.

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Avira shutdown problem

I found a problem on certain computers that are running Avira 2012 causing your computer to take a long time to shut down. If it does, try going into the configuration, turning on expert mode and under General > Security uncheck Protect files and registry entries from manipulation.

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Getting my feet wet

Here is my first blog on tumblr. Cheers!