Tech Tips HAS MOVED
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Triona's Tech Tips has MOVED to a new site. Please visit http://www.guidryconsulting.com/techtips for the latest computer news and tips. You can also subscribe to the Tech Tips email list. This site is no longer updated and remains only for archival purposes. All articles can be found on the new site.
See you at the new location!
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:44 PM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, computer help
Guidry Consulting Wins Customer Service Award
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
For the fourth year the Better Business Bureau has awarded Guidry Consulting its Complaint-Free Award for excellence in customer service. Thank you all for your support and referrals!
Many people come to me frustrated not only with their computer problems, but with the kind of unsympathetic tech support that gives real IT specialists a bad name. I try to leave every customer more content with their computers than when we started. If you're tired of substandard tech support, contact me and let me show you what I can do to help.
Guidry Consulting, Inc. is a BBB Accredited Business and participant in its OnLine Reliability program.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:34 AM 1 comments
Labels: computer help
2009 Computer Services Datasheet Available
Monday, December 15, 2008
The 2009 Guidry Consulting Computer Services datasheet (pdf) is now available. Guidry Consulting, Inc. provides computer services for PC and Mac including tech support, web design, and training. We are located in Chicago's northwest suburbs. For more information, please visit our web site at www.guidryconsulting.com.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:19 AM 0 comments
Labels: computer help
Should You Buy PC Or Mac?
When choosing a computer, you want to be happy with it in the long run. By evaluating the best computer for your needs, you can stretch its lifespan and spare your wallet.
The first question people ask is, "PC or Mac?" I call it the "Coke or Pepsi" argument because it's a matter of personal preference. PCs and Macs let you do the same things: check email, surf the Web, write documents. They differ in how you use them.
PCs are ubiquitous in the business world, so if you already have an investment in Windows it's wise to keep it. This is especially true for those who use the enhanced features of programs like Outlook,Windows Server, and Exchange. For your average consumer, Windows works well but can be difficult to keep protected from Internet threats.
Everyone knows Macs rule the graphics world, but what you may not know is that they are the foundation of many businesses as well. Now that Macs run Windows, the old argument that Macs can't run the same software as PCs is moot. Quite a few of my corporate clients are mixed-platform, meaning they have both PCs and Macs.
I personally believe the Mac is "more secure" than the PC, not that any computer is truly secure. Macs are based on the UNIX operating system, the same systems upon which the Internet was developed and continues to run. That's forty years' worth of security testing, compared to half that for Windows. I still advocate antivirus for Macs, and I hold out hope that Windows can be redesigned to be more secure without losing the features that have made it so popular.
So, should you buy PC or Mac? It's up to you but either way, I'll be here to give you a hand.
Next month ask me why I say, Don't Renew Your AntiVirus Software. Be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for regular alerts plus bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:16 AM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, computer help, consumers, mac, small business, windows
Phony Web Pop-Ups
Saturday, November 15, 2008
The next time your computer gives you an error message, take a second look.
Because it may be a phony web pop-up, trying to convince you that your computer has an error. These pop-ups look remarkably like regular system alerts, but they're really Web ads trying to get you to click and infect your computer. The notorious WinAntiVirus scam (aka Winifixer or the Smitfraud trojan) uses this ploy to convince you that your computer is at risk unless you install their purported product.
Other Web pop-ups may try to get you to click on seemingly legitimate ads or offers. It can be extremely difficult to tell the difference between a real ad and a fake one, or even between a real Web site and a malicious clone. You can test your Web savvy through the McAfee SiteAdvisor spam and spyware quizzes, which will show you just how deceptive these phony pop-ups can be. (I also recommend you install the SiteAdvisor plug-in for your browser.)
Worse, there's the practice of clickjacking, which allows a malicious program to force your browser to click any link. This means you could get infected without any interaction on your part.
How can you protect yourself? Be sure to run the latest version of your antivirus software (see the Windows Help and Mac Help sidebars for suggestions). Windows users, don't use Internet Explorer, try Mozilla Firefox instead. Using IE can increase your risk of infection. I also strongly recommend that you not click on web pop-ups, ever. Use Firefox's pop-up blocker or a similar tool to keep the pop-ups away, and ignore the ones that do slip through.
Next month we'll go over my Holiday Computer Gift Guide. If you have any computer questions, click Comments below this article, and be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:48 PM 0 comments
Labels: advanced users, antivirus, beginners, computer help, consumers, Internet, small business, spyware, web
Planned Computer Obsolescence
Planned obsolescence is the idea that computer manufacturers deliberately design hardware to force customers into continual replacement.
Does planned computer obsolescence exist? If not, recent manufacturing quality (or lack thereof) certainly leads to that impression. I am positive that computer printers made fifteen years ago last longer than those made today. Cases in point: the high percentage of ancient HP LaserJet printers I encounter, bless their little electronic hearts. On the other hand, newer printers of all brands, especially the low-end models, seem to suffer a less-than-two-year lifespan.
Computers are the same. That $500 PC... well, you may get what you pay for in a few years. Then again, you could buy a $5,000 PC and have the same experience. In general, Macs seem to resist planned obsolescence more readily, perhaps because Apple's stranglehold on the Mac hardware market limits competition. Even so, design decisions like the Intel Macs force customers to invest in new hardware.
Sometimes you have no choice but to follow the industry's "rip and replace" mantra. A recent flaw in the wireless security protocol WPA may soon mean that if your wireless access point is more than a few years old, you will have to replace it or risk being hacked. But it's not always feasible to spend yet more money on another piece of equipment when you feel like you just bought the one you have.
What can you do? Don't worry if your computer isn't the latest and greatest. If it does what you want, fine. If it's slow, try software repairs before resorting to a new system, or see if you can upgrade rather than replace. Not only will this curtail planned obsolescence, but it's better for your budget as well as our ewaste-encrusted planet.
Next month I'll share with you the biggest secret in the tech world, Should You Buy PC Or Mac? If you have any computer questions, click Comments below this article, and be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 4:40 PM 0 comments
Labels: computer help, computer stores, consumers, mac, small business, windows, wireless networks
Home Computer Nightmares
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Home computer users suffer more than their fair share of nightmarish problems, largely due to a dearth of support from computer and software makers. Here are some common nightmares, and what you can do to banish them.
- The Blue Screen Of Death, or The Sad Mac
These are what we call the Windows and Mac "fatal system errors," fatal in that they prevent the computer from operating at all. The BSOD is that bright blue screen that appears when you try to start Windows. Similarly, Mac users may get The Sad Mac when the computer is too sick to start. Review any new hardware or software you may have installed, note the error number if available, and check online listings to determine the source of the problem. - The Deadly Freeze
Computers can unexpectedly freeze, or lock up, in the middle of normal duties. Sometimes you can move the mouse, other times you can't even find the pointer. Your best bet is to hit the power button. Unfortunately you usually can't save work when the computer is frozen. - The Printer From Hell
Ever had your printer pull a Linda Blair? Spewing blank sheets, printing weird characters, and other misbehavior can sometimes be solved through the printer's software control panel. - The Ghost Of Errors Past
Do you reboot when you get an error? If not, you should. Once a computer runs into trouble, it tends to keep getting in trouble until its next reboot, when it refreshes its memory.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 12:49 PM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, computer help, mac, windows
Online Safety For Kids (And Adults)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
There is a lot of discussion these days about kids and the Internet. Parents, myself included, are rightfully concerned about what our children can access, and who has access to them. Businesses are concerned about liability issues and the compromise of customer data, in the pervasively interpersonal world of instant communication.
The same techniques used to secure a corporate computer can, and should, be used to secure a personal home computer. The same policies used by corporations can be modified for a family environment. By including your kids in the process of creating a home Internet policy, you'll be able to supervise their Internet access while allowing them the freedom to explore.
Corporations typically have an "acceptable use policy," which governs what is allowed or prohibited on the company network. It's part of the employee handbook, and looks like this:
This computer system is for authorized use only. By using this system, the user consents to such interception, monitoring, recording, copying, auditing, inspection, and disclosure at the discretion of authorized personnel. Unauthorized or improper use of this system may result in disciplinary action and civil and criminal penalties. By continuing to use this system you indicate your awareness of and consent to these terms and conditions of use.Parents can create a home policy based on these ideas. This is not to say you should treat your children like little employees, but you can use the same concepts to start a family discussion about online safety. It's up to you to keep up with the latest techno-fashions, so you know how to respond to things like MySpace accounts and multiplayer games. You're reading this article, so you've already made a good start.
First things first, you have to properly protect your machine. It's no use badgering your kids about downloading music when you don't even have up-to-date antivirus software. We've been over the drill, but let's review the "four-legged chair," the four critical things you need to secure your computer:
- Antivirus software
- Anti-spyware software
- A firewall, hardware or software
- The latest updates
Now, you need to decide what your home policies will be. Are your kids only allowed to use the Internet during certain hours, or after homework is done? What services can they use (such as email, web, and chat)? Will you use parental controls, and if so, what kind? Will you be recording their chat sessions, logging the sites they visit, counting the tunes they buy? Be open to negotiation. Nothing will alienate a kid faster than laying down the law, and they seem to view the Internet as their personal possession.
Once it's been discussed, put your policy in writing and sign it with your kids, just like a corporate policy. Now that the rules are clear, and protections in place, you can let your kids surf. But remember, no technology can substitute for supervision. Consider locating the computer in a public area. You'll also want to review with them the following safety tips. If they're chatting with friends, suggest they set up a code phrase, so they can verify the human behind the screenname. Never give out personal information, such as full name, address, or school. And they should never, ever, make arrangements to meet an online friend in the real world unless they, and you, are positive of that person's true identity.
What parental control options are available? Your Internet service may already include some; check with your provider. Otherwise you can use a software program. I'll be reviewing your choices for "Parental Control Software" in the upcoming September 2008 issue of Tech Tips.
Finally, hand this column to your kids. This paragraph is for them:
Yes, I'm your parents' age, but my generation came up with all that technology you're enjoying, so take off the earbuds and listen. When you're on the computer, use your common sense. The Internet is a public network, and anything you post can be viewed by perfect strangers, potential employers, or your parents. Be aware of how to protect yourself, and your computer. Then next time you want to go online, you won't have to worry that your computer will crash, and your parents won't have to worry about you.
[This article is reprinted from the March 2007 issue of Triona's Tech Tips. More advice on kids, computers and the Internet coming in September.]
Posted byTriona Guidry at 2:03 PM 0 comments
Labels: antivirus, beginners, computer help, consumers, firewalls, Internet, kids, mac, security, spyware, windows
How To Protect From Cybercrime
Friday, August 15, 2008
If the cybercrime situation is so dire, what can an average person do about it? I present the four-legged chair of computer security. Without all four legs, your computer's defenses could collapse.
- Antivirus software
You know this; what you may not know is that antivirus alone does not catch every threat. - Anti-spyware software
Spyware is software you don't want, similar to viruses but using different tactics. Adware, malware, keyloggers, Trojan horses, they all fit into the category of spyware. - Firewall
Just like a fire door in a hospital, a firewall keeps out Internet nasties that try to sneak under the radar of antivirus and anti-spyware software. - Regular updates ("patches")
Every program has bugs, and these bugs can be used by viruses to manipulate your computer. Harden your security defenses by keeping your software up-to-date.
If you have a company-owned computer, talk to your IT department about the protections that are installed. Find out if your corporate network prevents laptops from logging on unless the laptop has updated security. You can also explore one-time password systems, or biometric options like the fingerprint scanners now built in to most laptops.
Do you have questions about protecting yourself from cybercrime? Ask them here (click Comments below any article), and be sure to sign up for the email version of Tech Tips for bonus tips and product reviews.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:49 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, antivirus, beginners, computer help, consumers, firewalls, Internet, keyloggers, mac, norton, passwords, phishing, security, small business, spyware, web, windows, zonealarm
You Could Be A Computer Criminal
Imagine there's a knock at your door. "Police," they say. "You're under arrest for child pornography."
Are you a computer criminal? You could be a thief, a spammer, a spyware sender... and you could get arrested for it, all without knowing.
Take the case of substitute teacher Julie Amero. She was given a classroom computer that, according to reports, was completely unprotected, and when the machine displayed pornographic popups, she was arrested for child endangerment. Another article tells the story of a state employee arrested for having child porn on his work-provided laptop, which did not have functional antivirus software.
Most people have no idea whether their computers are truly protected from Internet threats. We pay token attention to antivirus, or trust that our company-owned computers are defended. Computer makers leave it up to the consumer to figure out how to install and maintain security software. What can you do to ensure you're not the next victim?
You don't have to be a tech expert, and it doesn't take much time. See this month's Tech Tip on How To Protect From Cybercrime.
And if you are ever in doubt, feel free to post your computer questions here (click Comments below any article) and I'll do my best to answer them.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 8:44 AM 0 comments
Labels: alerts, antivirus, beginners, computer help, consumers, Internet, keyloggers, mac, security, small business, spyware, windows
Windows Vista, Revisited
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Last January we discussed Windows Vista, touted as the best thing for PCs since... well, since Windows XP. How good is this new version, and does it measure up to the marketing?
In short, no. I have not received a single call from someone saying, "Gee, Triona, I really want to upgrade to Vista today." Those who have it are folks who found themselves with it when they bought new machines. I've seen some compatibility trouble with older hardware and software, and of course we're all still getting used to Vista's new look.
Low-cost computers may turn out to be less than a bargain. Microsoft says Vista will run on a PC with 512MB of memory and 20GB on the hard drive. But anyone in the IT world will tell you, there's a big difference between Microsoft's "minimum" system requirements and the real world. You'll need at least 1GB of memory, preferably 2GB, and as much disk space as you can muster. And if you don't have a 256MB graphics card, you can say goodbye to Aero, the fancy Vista interface. Budget computers don't have enough graphics capability. Since it's hard to upgrade graphics on laptops, mobile users in particular may be looking for new machines earlier than they thought.
Most people will find it more cost-effective to replace their computers instead of upgrading to handle Vista, a sad remark on our society's throwaway attitude toward technology. Unless you have a good reason to move to this new Windows version, you might as well stick with XP. But if you're not at XP yet, consider skipping straight to Vista. And do it sooner, not later. Older Windows versions cannot be adequately protected from Internet threats. You can still buy a new computer with Windows XP through June 30, 2008. That's a good option for those of you with older programs that can't yet be moved to Vista.
[This article is reprinted from the January 2008 issue of Triona's Tech Tips. See Green Computing in the right-hand sidebar for electronics recycling solutions, and don't forget to read about the problems folks are having with Windows XP downgrades now that the June 30 deadline has expired.]
Posted byTriona Guidry at 6:31 AM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, computer help, consumers, small business, windows
Emergency Computer Problem-Solving
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Tech Tips readers may be interested in my latest article, "Emergency Computer Problem-Solving," available on the Cary Grove Chamber Of Commerce web site.
We all know that sinking feeling, when the computer does something it shouldn't. Maybe it's a blank screen greeting your day, or an error message during a deadline. Many people don't know that there are easy ways to fix computer problems if you know the expert tricks.See the article for more detail, and look for my Chamber-sponsored class, Blogs For Business, coming in October.
Posted byTriona Guidry at 9:55 PM 0 comments
Labels: articles, beginners, blogs, computer help, emergency, mac, small business, windows
Bring Your Computer Questions To The Tech Tips Challenge
Thursday, June 5, 2008
This month we're talking about blogs – what they are, and how to use them to promote your business. Blogs (an abbreviation for web logs) are online forums that allow you to communicate instantly with your clientele. While a web site gives you Internet presence, a blog offers a way to maintain existing customers while reaching out to new ones.
In keeping with the theme of blogs, I'd like to offer a challenge to all my Tech Tips readers. Bring me your hardest computer questions, and I will provide the answers.
Windows, Mac, or whatever else you've got, in my twenty years in computers I've probably encountered the problems that drive you crazy. They're easier to solve than you think, and I'll tell you how.
For those new to blogging, it works like this: The blog writer (that's me) posts an article on the blog. There's a link at the bottom where you can reply. Your reply gets posted, I respond, others chime in, and pretty soon you've got a lively discussion.
Small business owners know how hard it is to maintain an ongoing marketing campaign. Writing a blog takes as little time as sending an email, and results in greater exposure for your company. The applications for your business are endless.
If you'd like to respond to my Tech Tips challenge, just click "comments" below. I look forward to your computer questions!
Posted byTriona Guidry at 10:02 AM 3 comments
Labels: beginners, blogs, computer help, consumers, small business
Need computer help? You've come to the right place!
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Welcome to the new, improved Triona's Tech Tips!
This blog supplements the Tech Tips mailing list, a FREE monthly newsletter for consumer and small business computer users. Subscribers will continue to receive the email newsletter midmonth. If you're not already a subscriber, you're welcome to join:
http://www.guidryconsulting.com/mailman/listinfo/techtips
The articles will also appear on the Tech Tips blog so you can comment and ask questions of your friendly neighborhood tech guru – me!
Let me know if there are questions you'd like answered in future articles. In the meantime, read, share, and enjoy!
Posted byTriona Guidry at 6:56 PM 0 comments
Labels: beginners, computer help