Data loss: prevention is key! – 4/12/2024
We hope this newsletter finds you well! In today’s digital age, our lives are increasingly dependent on the data stored on our devices. Whether it’s personal memories, important work documents, or valuable information, the loss of such data can be distressing and costly. That’s why we’re excited to share with you some valuable insights and tips on data recovery in this edition of our newsletter.
Understanding Data Recovery
Data recovery is the process of retrieving lost or deleted data from storage devices such as hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), USB drives, memory cards, and even smartphones. It involves specialized techniques that allow for the retrieval of files that have been accidentally deleted or corrupted due to hardware failure, software issues, viruses, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Causes of Data Loss
There are several common causes of data loss:
Accidental deletion: We’ve all been there—mistakenly deleting an important file or folder.
Hardware failure: Hard drives can fail due to mechanical issues or electrical problems.
Software corruption occurs when operating systems crash or become corrupted.
Virus attacks: Malicious software can compromise your system and lead to data loss.
Natural disasters—fires, floods, earthquakes—all pose a risk to physical storage devices.
Steps to Take Immediately After Data Loss
If you find yourself facing a potential loss of important data:
a) Stop using the affected device immediately. Continued use may overwrite deleted files and complicate recovery efforts.
b) Disconnect from the internet: This reduces the risk of malware spreading further into your system.
c) Do not attempt DIY solutions unless you have expertise in data recovery; this could lead to permanent damage.
Professional Data Recovery Services
Engaging professional data recovery services is often the best course of action when dealing with complex cases or critical data loss situations. These experts possess the specialized tools and knowledge required for successful recoveries.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of data loss, taking preventative measures will help safeguard your valuable information:
a) Regularly backup your files using both local external storage devices (hard drives) and cloud-based solutions.
b) Invest in reliable anti-virus software and keep it updated regularly.
c) Be cautious when opening email attachments from unknown sources; they may contain viruses designed to compromise your system.
DIY Data Recovery Tools
For less severe cases where there is no physical damage involved, DIY recovery tools can be used cautiously. These software options scan storage devices for recoverable files but should only be used if you have technical knowledge regarding their safe usage.
Remember that prevention is key! Taking proactive steps towards securing your digital assets will save you time and stress if a catastrophic event occurs.
We hope these insights have given you a better understanding of how crucial it is to protect your valuable data. If ever faced with a challenging situation involving lost files in the future, don’t panic! Call (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page for professional assistance from trusted experts in the field! Stay safe online!
The Real Price of Cheap Printers Revealed – 4/5/2024
We’ve all been there – rushing to print an important document only to discover your inkjet printer is on the fritz yet again. Whether it’s refusing to print because the cartridges aren’t full enough or leaving streaks and lines across your documents, inkjet printers are notorious for acting up precisely when you need them most. Beyond the frustration, these constant issues could be costing you more than you realize.
The Hidden and Ongoing Costs of Inkjet Printing
On the surface, inkjet printers may seem like the more affordable printer option. However, printer manufacturers make their real profits through expensive replacement ink cartridges rather than the printers themselves. The cost of a set of new cartridges is often much higher than the actual printer.
What’s more, ink dries out quickly, which means cartridges need frequent replacement, even if you aren’t a heavy printer. All those replacement cartridges add up over time. Research shows the total lifetime cost of owning an inkjet can be double or even triple the initial purchase price once you factor in ink.
Constant Clogging and Drying Issues
One of the biggest frustrations of inkjet printing is the tendency for those tiny nozzles to clog if the printer sits idle too long. This is because inkjets deposit liquid ink onto the page through micro nozzles. If not used regularly, the ink inside can dry up and cause blockages.
Even printing just a few pages weekly may not be enough use to keep ink flowing freely. The result is streaks, lines, light prints or failures to print at all – right when you need it most. How much time have you wasted troubleshooting a clogged inkjet instead of working on important projects?
Laser Printers – A Low Maintenance Alternative
Laser printers work differently by using dry toner powder and an electrostatic printing process rather than liquid ink. This eliminates the clogging issues that plague inkjets.
Additionally, lasers are designed to sit idle for extended periods without issue. You can print confidently when that looming deadline arrives, knowing your laser printer will perform flawlessly—no more delays or frustrations caused by an unreliable inkjet.
What About Color Printing?
While inkjet printers provide the benefit of color printing, the need for color for most typical home use is quite low. Most common printing tasks like documents, homework assignments, bills, and other everyday papers rarely require color.
For the occasional photo or graphic needing color, it’s often more affordable to outsource those prints to a retail store rather than pay for expensive color inkjet cartridges.
Invest in Hassle-Free Printing
If your inkjet has become more trouble than it’s worth, it may be time to make the switch to a laser printer.
Contact us today at (651) 456-8655, or visit our Contact page, and I’ll help you choose a printer designed for reliability rather than constant repairs and cartridge replacements. Say goodbye to dried-out nozzles and streaky prints with a laser that’s always ready when you need it most. The total cost of ownership will be much less over the long run.
If your trusty home PC has started showing its age, with more issues cropping up lately, you may be wondering if it’s finally time to say goodbye to your old friend. Or could some TLC in the form of repairs get it back in the game?
We are often asked to help clients make this decision. Several important factors must be considered when determining the best path forward.
How Old Is It Really?
While it may seem like you just bought it yesterday, some computers have relatively short lifespans in technological terms. If your machine is more than 10 years old, it’s likely well past its prime. Parts can become difficult to source, and repair costs may exceed the original value.
What Issues Are Cropping Up?
Minor glitches that cause annoyance but don’t hamper use, such as a stubborn virus or faulty keyboard, can often be fixed for $50 – $150. On the other hand, multiple hardware failures, a dying motherboard, or other major component replacements indicate deeper underlying issues. For problems of that magnitude, repairs may cost 50% – 75% the price of a new comparable model.
Will Parts Be Readily Available?
Specific key components may go out of production after a few years, especially with aging laptops. If it’s determined that your motherboard, screen, or other vital piece needs swapping out, there’s a good chance we won’t be able to get a replacement. This significantly increases repair costs and turnaround time, due to custom orders or used-part sourcing.
How’s the Performance Over Time?
Modern computing demands continue to grow exponentially with each passing year. If your PC has been steadily slowing down over the last 6–12 months and is struggling to run even basic tasks, it may be time for an upgrade.
What’s Your Budget Situation?
For clients on a tight budget, we’re always willing to thoroughly diagnose issues and provide affordable repair options to squeeze out a little more usability from an older machine. However, if an attractive new model is realistically within your means, an upgrade may give you several more years of smooth sailing.
Let’s Diagnose Your Situation
Rather than taking guesses, we always recommend bringing your computer for a thorough diagnosis. We can carefully assess its overall condition, identify any underlying problems, provide repair estimates, and help you weigh up the costs and benefits of fixing versus upgrading based on your unique needs and budget.
With the right solution, you’ll be back to enjoying your computer for many more years to come! Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit my Contact page to send me a message.
Level up your gaming experience with a custom-built PC! – 3/25/2024
Are you tired of lagging gameplay and slow load times on your current computer? It’s time to level up your gaming experience with a custom-built PC from our expert team! With our high-quality components and top-notch service, we guarantee you’ll see a noticeable difference in your gaming performance.
Why choose a custom-built PC from us? Here are just a few reasons:
1. Personalization: We work closely with you to understand your gaming needs and preferences, ensuring that your PC is tailored to your specific requirements.
2. Quality Components: We only use the best components from trusted brands to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
3. Performance Boost: Say goodbye to lagging gameplay and hello to smooth, fast-paced action with a custom-built PC designed to handle even the most demanding games.
4. Future-Proofing: Our PCs are built to last, with the option to easily upgrade components as technology advances, ensuring that your system stays up-to-date for years to come.
Take the next step towards gaming freedom
Ready to take your gaming experience to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team of expert builders. We’ll work with you every step of the way to create the perfect custom-built PC for your gaming needs.
Don’t settle for subpar performance any longer. Upgrade to a custom-built PC from us and experience the difference for yourself! Give Twin Cities PC Repair a call at (651) 456-8655, or send a message by visiting our Contact page today!
Protecting Kids in the Evolving Digital Landscape, Patrick Jensen, 3/15/2024
From online bullying to inappropriate content, the internet poses unique risks to children that didn’t exist just a decade ago. While basic safety measures such as avoiding suspicious links and keeping personal details private are still necessary, today’s kids face a more complex threat landscape that demands continuous vigilance from parents.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top concerns and what proactive steps you can take to shield your family.
In-Game Purchases and Loot Boxes
Many popular games and apps entice kids with in-game currencies and randomized “loot boxes” that can function similarly to gambling. Children can unwittingly spend real money with just a few intuitive taps without understanding its value. While some platforms have added parental controls, enforcement remains inconsistent.
The safest approach to avoiding unexpected in-game spending is to avoid entering payment details altogether and use only gift cards with set balances for your kids’ accounts.
Filtering Across All Devices
With smartphones and tablets in the hands of even the youngest children, they now have constant internet access well beyond the home computer. It’s critical to employ consistent, comprehensive content filters across all devices your family uses, from desktops to mobiles.
Depending on your child’s age and maturity, options range from white-listing only approved websites to selectively blocking categories such as adult content, violence, or social media. While some devices have built-in parental controls, third-party solutions often provide more customization and coverage for multiple connected products in one place.
Monitoring Screen Time, Activity and Mental Well-Being
Both mobile and desktop operating systems offer parental controls to view activity reports and limit when and for how long children can use technology.
You can restrict specific apps, games, and websites, helping guide them toward age-appropriate content and healthy screen habits. Regularly reviewing activity logs ensures tools are properly configured to reflect your family’s needs and values. It also allows the prompt addressing of any concerning online behavior before it negatively impacts their well-being or development.
Educating Children About Internet Safety
Alongside tools, open communication helps kids navigate the online world safely and responsibly. Discuss appropriate ways to interact with others online and how to handle seeing upsetting content or bullying. Explain the potential dangers of oversharing personal details.
Prioritizing Safety Shouldn’t Mean Sacrificing Learning
While online threats have grown more complex, so too have the educational benefits of technology for curious young minds. With the right balance of education and protection, families can experience all the internet has to offer while ensuring their children’s well-being remains the top priority.
Contact us at (651) 456-8655 today or visit our Contact page to discuss a digital solution tailored to your household.
If you’ve noticed your home internet experience declining recently, with Netflix frequently buffering, lag in online games, or spotty Wi-Fi coverage throughout the house, it may be time for an upgrade.
Before you get frustrated with the slowdowns and dropouts, let’s evaluate if a new router could resolve these issues. A modern model designed to handle today’s bandwidth-heavy demands may be just what you need to restore fast, seamless Wi-Fi where you need it most.
Slowing Performance as the Network Grows
In the last 5–10 years, home networks have seen exponential growth in connected devices. Where households once had only a computer or two, it’s now common to have 10 or more devices simultaneously using the router for streaming media, Web browsing, online gaming, and more.
This increased bandwidth demand stresses older routers that are not designed for high-traffic networks. They have less powerful processors, less memory, and less advanced chipsets than newer models. Over time, an aging router may struggle to keep up, resulting in lagging or buffering issues.
Frequent Disconnections and Requiring Reboots
If you’ve noticed your Wi-Fi signal cutting out regularly, forcing you to reboot the router to get reconnected, this is a telltale sign that the router may be on the way out.
Outdated Wireless Standards
The Wi-Fi standards supported by routers have advanced rapidly in the last five years alone. Older models may be capable of only slower legacy standards such as 802.11b/g or 802.11n, while newer devices take full advantage of the increased speeds that standards such as 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) provide.
It also leaves you vulnerable, as older standards have known security flaws that newer protocols have addressed.
Missing Security Updates
Wireless router manufacturers typically support a device with firmware security updates for around five years after its release. But after that point, if new exploits are discovered, your older router model may no longer receive patches, leaving it open to hacks and malware.
By upgrading to a currently supported model, you can ensure the latest bug and vulnerability fixes for years to come, keeping your home network protected as threats evolve.
Feeling left behind by your ISP router?
If your current router was supplied by your internet service provider (ISP) as part of the connection package, it was likely a very basic and low-cost model selected to meet the minimum functionality requirements.
While “free” at the time, these OEM routers are often underpowered for today’s needs. An independently purchased router gives you complete control to choose a model tailored to your specific usage scenarios, such as whole-home coverage, fast speeds, or robust parental controls, ensuring you get the most out of your broadband home network.
Is it time for an upgrade?
If any of the issues above seem familiar or you want a faster, more reliable network throughout your home, an upgrade to a new, higher-performance router is well worth the investment.
Give us a call today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page, and one of our experts can recommend the right model for your needs while also handling hassle-free installation.
Reasons to Rethink Your ISP-Provided Router (10/25/2023)
When you sign up with your internet service provider (ISP), you may also get a modem and router combination. It could be free, a rental, or something you buy outright. Before assuming that this is the best device for your needs, weigh up these considerations.
Many ISPs provide you with a proprietary router and modem. Your internet service plan may include it for a rental fee, or you might have to pay over time to buy the device. If that’s the case, find out how much the modem and router would cost to buy outright. You might be able to buy a higher-quality device at a better price.
Other times, ISPs offer free modems and/or routers included with your plan. The price is reasonable, sure, but you could be getting a low-quality device. You might want to upgrade to a better option for not much more money.
What you need to know about modems and routers
Your home network requires a modem, router, or combination device. The latter are becoming more common.
The modem connects your home to your ISP through a physical connection. This device translates ISP data into a format your home network devices can use.
The router creates a local area network (LAN), connecting your devices to your modem. This allows your computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones to connect to the internet. You’ll have either a wired or wireless router.
In summary, the modem sends and receives internet signals, while the router distributes them to your devices.
What to look for in a router
Before relying on an ISP router, consider the benefits of store-bought devices.
If parental controls are important to you, shop for a router offering those features. You may have parental control apps on your devices, but having the controls on the router can be more effective.
Encourage a safer online environment for children with features such as:
website filtering
content filtering
time restrictions
safe search
device management
reports and alerts
remote management
You can also improve network security with a router that allows you to set up a separate guest network. Provide guests with internet access without worrying they can access your private network.
You can also look for a router that supports Quality of Service (QoS). This feature allows you to allocate internet bandwidth to different devices or applications. For example, you can prioritize a work computer with more bandwidth than a gaming console.
Don’t settle for the ISP’s equipment
We’ve given you plenty of reasons to rethink your ISP’s router, yet choosing an alternative could overwhelm you. We can help you identify the right solution for your specific needs. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Keeping Kids Safe on Discord and Online Platforms – 9/25/2023
You might remember setting up a “telephone” with a friend made with cups and a string. Or feel nostalgic for the novelty of having your own phone line in your home growing up. Meanwhile, we’re raising the digital generation. They game online, chat online, stream TV online…everything is online. One popular channel for kids’ conversations? Discord. Here’s help keeping your kids safe on this and other online platforms.
Discord is a popular communication platform connecting communities of people online. It’s particularly popular with gamers. But kids use it for real-time voice and video calls, screen sharing, and group or private chats.
Ultimately, Discord is a versatile and powerful platform. That means it’s important to guide young users in using it responsibly.
Keeping Kids Safe on Discord
Discord requires its users to be at least 13 years old, but this is not enforced. Protecting your kids requires communication, as well as an understanding of the platform’s safety features.
Discord users can share text messages, images, GIFs, videos, and links in their channels. That means your child may encounter inappropriate content.
Reduce the probability by setting up Family Center to connect your account with your child’s:
Open Discord.
Tap on Family Center.
In user Settings, toggle the Enable Family Center tab.
Scan the QR code under your child’s Connect with Your Parent option in their Family Center tab.
Once you’re connected, you’ll be able to see friend requests, who they make calls to, and who they have messaged, although you won’t be able to see the content of those calls and messages. You can also track which servers (think of it like a text thread) they take part in. You can also receive weekly recaps via email.
It’s also a good idea to:
Encourage your child to accept friend requests only from people they know in real life;
Review their friend list to ensure no unfamiliar users are added;
Set up Safe Direct Messaging, which prevents direct messages from users not on the friend list;
Review and adjust privacy settings to enable content filters and to control who can send friend requests, see their online status, and more.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on the account for added security.
Online Safety for Kids
Controls can help, but you probably want to pair online safety with giving autonomy.
Communicate with your child about online safety. Teach them about not sharing personal information and reporting any uncomfortable situations. Remind them that someone may not be who they say they are. Warn them of the risks of meeting up with someone they meet online.
Setting screen time limits can also help curtail your child’s online activity. This encourages them to set boundaries and continue to develop other interests.
Lead by example by limiting your own online time and treating others with kindness. Encouraging critical thinking can also help your child’s digital literacy. Ask them to think about a cyberbully’s motives, or discuss why taking responsibility for online activity is important.
Finally, let them know they can come to you with concerns or uncomfortable situations. Online safety is an ongoing process. Stay involved in and updated about your child’s online activities.
Need help understanding new technologies your child is using? Our IT experts can help set up a safer online environment for your entire family. Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
“What’s that password again? Wait, I changed it… Harrumph. I don’t remember!” We’ve all been there, sometimes many times a day. Password autofill on our Web browsers felt like the sun was shining on our online activity again. Sorry to tell you, but this convenience may not be entirely safe.
Most browsers will ask after you’ve entered a new password into a site or changed a password if you want it stored for you. That way, when you revisit that site, the browser can autofill the access credentials for you. It saves you the struggle of trying to keep all your passwords straight.
The problem is that some sites, including legitimate sites, can be compromised with a hidden form. You’ll never see it, but your browser will. So, it will autofill that form, and in clear, unencrypted text. This allows bad actors to capture your username and password without your knowledge.
Another risk? Irresponsible digital marketers may use hidden autofill forms to track your online activity. That’s done without your consent.
Using browser autofill with a password manager can also cause confusion, especially if your browser autofills, whereas the manager asks before filling in forms. Using both at the same time you also run the risk of duplicating passwords, which could make it difficult to track your passwords and increase the risk of security breach.
How to disable autofill
You can protect your passwords by disabling autofill on any browser you use:
On Microsoft Edge, go to Settings, then Profiles, then Passwords, and disable “Offer to save passwords.”
On Google Chrome, go to Settings, then Passwords, and disable “Offer to save passwords.”
On Firefox, open Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Logins and Passwords, and “Autofill logins and passwords.”
On Safari, from the Preferences window, select and turn off Auto-fill.
Can I keep using password managers?
A password manager, such as LastPass or 1Password, typically provides more security than browser autofill. Password managers have strong encryption algorithms to protect your login credentials, which means that even if your device is compromised, your passwords are safe.
Still, if the manager autofills your credentials, you face the same risks. Most password managers have autofill disabled by default. That’s good. Leave preemptive autofill off. You might see it called “Autofill on page load.” Keep that turned off, too.
Our advice? Use a password manager that requires you to click a box before it fills in your credentials. This action avoids your information from automatically populating a hidden form.
Securing your online activity is an ongoing challenge. Our experts can help identify ways you can protect your privacy and data online. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our contact page.
Mobile apps let us play, teach us, give us social media or music, and more. No wonder there were more than 142 billion downloads in 2022! Going to Google or Apple’s mobile stores to find the app you want feels safe, but even these heavy hitters can’t guarantee you’re downloading something secure.
Google and Apple do their best, but they are vetting many thousands of new apps submitted monthly. The vast majority of their offerings aren’t a threat, but some malicious apps can make it through.
What do malicious app downloads do?
Apps downloaded from mobile stores are typically more secure than your Web activity. On an app, you’re within a contained system, whereas on the Web, you click through various links and visit websites which could have viruses or malware.
Still, a malicious app can infect your smartphone and cause several issues:
Ad fraud. The app runs in the background and sends ad clicks to different websites. This runs down your battery and slows your phone activity.
Data theft. If you give a malicious app permission to cross the app/data divide, it could lead to information being stolen.
Browser hacking. The app may open website browsers that put you at risk of sharing sensitive data.
Apps access all your information (SMS, camera, contacts) and take control of your device.
Keep your mobile phone safe
When looking to download a mobile app, do your research. Look at the ratings and how many downloads it has had. Application reviews can also help you verify the credibility of the app. Check the logo and the name of the creator, too. You don’t want to install something from Microsaft instead of Microsoft.
Keep your mobile device’s operating system current. Installing the manufacturer’s updates can help cut your vulnerabilities.
Also, take a moment to review the permissions for that new app. There’s no reason a calculator app needs access to your entire address book and camera. If the app asks for too much access, it can be a good idea to delete it and look for another option.
Be wary if you decide to download an app directly from a website other than the app store. This is a greater risk. Plus, know that illegally pirating software or media is a real risk for viruses.
Also, keep an eye out for common signs of a virus on your phone such as:
other apps taking longer than usual to open or install;
phone battery running down faster than normal;
your monthly data usage increasing;
your contacts receiving odd messages from you via email, text, or social media.
Worried you may have a virus on your device? We can check and see. We can also help backup your data and, if necessary, wipe a compromised phone. Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
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