Why Every Small Business Needs Proactive Computer Maintenance in 2025 – 11/19/2025
In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology is the backbone of small businesses. From managing customer data to processing online payments, nearly every part of a business depends on reliable computer systems. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we see firsthand how a single computer issue can disrupt daily operations, slow productivity, or even put sensitive data at risk. That’s why proactive computer maintenance has become one of the most essential strategies for business longevity in 2025.
The Rise of Hidden Threats
Cyberthreats have evolved drastically over the last few years. Gone are the days when viruses were the biggest concern. Today, small businesses face:
Ransomware attacks
Phishing attempts
Zero-day vulnerabilities
Hardware-based malware
AI-driven social engineering
Many attacks don’t happen in an instant—they quietly infiltrate systems and wait. Businesses often don’t realize something is wrong until data goes missing, systems crash, or strange network activity appears. Regular maintenance, updates, and monitoring can catch these issues before they become costly problems.
Performance Decline Is Often Preventable
A slow or unreliable computer is more than an annoyance; it’s a productivity killer. Employees lose hours every week to:
Long boot times
Freezing applications
Sluggish internet performance
Random reboots
Overheating systems
With proactive maintenance—cleanups, system optimizations, thermal management, driver updates, and software health checks—businesses keep their entire workflow running smoothly. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we often restore systems to “like-new” performance simply through deep-level tune-ups that aren’t accessible through basic user settings.
Reduce Repair Costs and Increase Lifespan
Most major hardware failures show warning signs long before they occur. For example:
Hard drives report failing sectors
Fans begin making subtle noises
Power supplies fluctuate
Thermal paste dries out
RAM produces intermittent errors
Catching these early saves businesses from catastrophic downtime and expensive replacements. With proactive care, you maximize your investment and extend the life of every workstation, laptop, or server.
Employee Productivity and Security Training
Not all threats or system issues are technical. Employee mistakes remain one of the biggest risks—whether it’s clicking a suspicious email link, using weak passwords, or installing unverified software.
As part of a proactive plan, Twin Cities PC Repair provides ongoing education, password security guidance, and recommendations for safe digital behavior. Training your team is just as important as securing your machines.
Remote Work Requires Stronger IT Support
With more remote employees in 2025, businesses must manage distributed systems. Proactive maintenance ensures:
Secure VPN access
Proper firewall configurations
Regular patching
Encrypted communication
Remote monitoring and troubleshooting
Whether on-site or working from home, your team stays protected and productive.
The Bottom Line
Proactive computer maintenance isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategic advantage. Small businesses that invest in ongoing system health avoid downtime, reduce long-term costs, strengthen security, and empower employees to do their best work.
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we offer tailored maintenance plans for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need monthly checkups or full-service monitoring, we can help you stay ahead of issues before they impact your workflow.
Consider booking your free consultation today! Visit my contact page to send me a message…
Honoring Veterans + This Week’s PC Tips, Fixes & Deals Twin Cities PC Repair — Weekly Newsletter
Residential Sales & Support
Veterans Day Message
To all who have served—thank you. Your courage and sacrifice protect the freedoms we enjoy every day. As a small gesture of appreciation, veterans and active-duty service members can take 10% off labor through November. Just mention “Veterans Day” at check-in and show your military ID to the receptionist.
What we’re seeing in the shop this week
Slow/“spinning wheel” Windows PCs: Usually fixed by removing startup bloat and checking drive health. If your computer takes more than 90 seconds to boot, it’s time for a tune-up.
Cracked laptop screens & loose hinges: We can special-order parts with fast turnaround.
Wi-Fi range issues at home: Mesh systems and correct router placement do wonders—ask us for a quick plan tailored to your floor layout.
Data rescue from failing drives: If your drive is clicking or disappearing, power it down and bring it in—every hour of use can make recovery harder.
60-second Tech Tip: The 3-2-1 Backup
Keep 3 copies of your important files on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site (cloud counts).
Easiest path: an external SSD for local copies + a reputable cloud backup that runs automatically.
Once set up, test a restore of one file so you know it works.
Scam/Phishing Alert (Pass it on!)
If a pop-up or caller claims to be Microsoft/Apple and asks for remote access or gift cards, it’s a scam. Close the window, don’t call the number, and give us a shout—we’ll remove the malware and secure your browser.
This Week’s Specials
Just mention the special you are interested in!
PC Tune-Up & Malware Cleanup: $127.50 (regular $170)
Laptop Battery Replacement: 10% off parts and labor
Home Wi-Fi Optimization Visit: $20 off with newsletter mention
Veterans & active duty: 10% off labor through November.
Quick How-To: Speed up startup
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Startup apps tab.
Disable anything you don’t recognize or don’t need at boot (you can re-enable later).
Restart and time your boot—under a minute is the goal.
Need a new machine? We’ll match you to the right one.
Tell us your budget and what you do (web, Office, photos, gaming, bookkeeping). We’ll recommend a system that’s fast today and stays fast for years, then migrate your files/settings so you’re ready on day one.
Book a visit / Get help fast
Drop-off:Book online or walk-ins are welcome during business hours
Email:helpdesk@pcgoodguys.com Address: 7900 International Dr., Suite 300, Bloomington, MN 55425 Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Thanks for trusting Twin Cities PC Repair — Residential Sales & Support.
See you next week, and to our veterans: we’re grateful for you—today and every day.
Hello from Twin Cities PC Repair! We hope you’re doing well. This week, we’re diving into a hot topic affecting many of our customers: Windows 10 End-of-Life and What It Means for Your PC.
What’s Going On?
Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. (Windows Central)
That means no more security updates, no technical support, and increased risk if you continue to use Windows 10 past that date without taking precautions.
It’s not just a software issue — many users are upgrading hardware too, driving a surge in PC shipments. (IT Pro)
If you’re one of the many who still has a PC running Windows 10, here’s what you need to know (and what we can help you with).
Why This Matters for You
Security risks increase as vulnerabilities won’t be patched.
Software compatibility issues may crop up as developers target newer OS versions.
Hardware upgrades may become more appealing — whether it’s moving to a newer device or consolidating repairs.
If you’re thinking of reselling, recycling, or passing your PC on, you’ll want to securely erase data. (Windows Central)
In short — continuing to use Windows 10 “as is” is increasingly risky. But you have options.
What You Can Do About It
Here’s a checklist of steps you can take now or in the coming months:
Step
What to Do
Why It Helps
Upgrade to Windows 11
Move to a supported OS before your software or hardware runs into issues.
You’ll continue to receive security updates and support.
Backup Your Data
Make sure all your important files are backed up — external drive or cloud.
Prevent data loss if you change OS or device.
Securely Wipe Old Devices
If you’re retiring a Windows 10 PC, wipe drives using certified tools. (Windows Central)
Protect personal data from recovery by others.
Consider Hardware Upgrades or Replacements
Older machines may struggle with Windows 11 or modern workloads.
A newer or upgraded machine may run more reliably and for longer.
Audit Software Compatibility
Check whether the apps you use daily will work under Windows 11 (or newer).
Prevent surprises after getting your upgrade.
Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure whether your PC is capable of upgrading, or you want to migrate smoothly.
We can help assess your machine, migrate data, and perform the OS upgrade safely.
How Twin Cities PC Repair Can Help
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we’re ready to support you through the transition. Our services include:
PC evaluation to see whether your device is upgradeable or whether a replacement makes more sense
Data backup and migration to Windows 11
Secure data wiping & disposal of old devices
Hardware upgrades (RAM, SSD, etc.) to bring aging PCs up to speed
Clean & tune-up services to ensure optimal performance post-upgrade
If you’d like us to look at your machine and recommend a path forward (upgrade vs. replace), just reach out. We’re happy to provide a free estimate.
Other Maintenance Tips While You’re At It
While you tackle the OS upgrade, it’s a good time to refresh your regular PC maintenance routine:
Clean physical dust from vents and fans every 3–6 months to avoid overheating. (HP)
Run weekly malware scans and make sure antivirus is up-to-date. (ComputerCity)
Review startup programs and disable unnecessary ones for faster boot and responsiveness. (ComputerCity)
Keep at least ~15 % of your main drive free to allow headroom for updates and virtual memory. (NERDBOT)
These small steps help extend your PC’s lifespan and reduce unexpected issues.
Call to Action
If you’re ready to upgrade, or you’re just not sure what your best next step is, contact us for a free consultation.
I’ll evaluate your hardware, help with the upgrade path, and get you running safely on a supported OS.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for next week’s tips & tech updates.
🛡️ Cybersecurity Made Simple: 5 Everyday Habits to Keep Hackers Out
Patrick Jensen (Owner)
By Patrick Jensen, Owner of Twin Cities PC Repair
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and I want to take a moment to talk about something that affects all of us — keeping your computer and personal information safe online. You don’t have to be a large company to be a target. In fact, small businesses and everyday users are often the easiest ones for hackers to exploit. But here’s the good news — a few simple habits can make all the difference.
I’ve worked on countless computers that were infected with ransomware, malware, or phishing scams, and in most cases, these problems could have been prevented with a few small changes. So here are five cybersecurity habits I recommend to every customer.
1. Keep Your Software and Operating System Updated
I know those update reminders can be annoying — but they’re there for a reason. Updates often fix security holes that hackers love to take advantage of. If your computer is still running an older version of Windows, it may already be missing key protections. I can help you check your system to make sure it’s fully updated and running as securely as possible.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords (and a Password Manager)
One of the most common security mistakes I see is using the same password for multiple accounts. If one site gets hacked, cybercriminals can access everything. That’s why I always recommend using a password manager like Bitwarden, Dashlane, or 1Password. They generate and safely store complex passwords for you, so you don’t have to remember them all.
3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Even if your password gets stolen, two-factor authentication can stop hackers in their tracks. It adds a second layer of protection — usually a code sent to your phone or generated by an app. Most major sites now support 2FA, and it only takes a minute to set up. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself.
4. Watch Out for Phishing Scams
Phishing emails are getting more realistic all the time. They might look like they’re from your bank, a friend, or even a delivery company. Always double-check the sender’s email address, and don’t click on links or open attachments unless you’re sure they’re legitimate. When in doubt, go directly to the company’s official website or give them a call.
5. Back Up Your Important Files
No matter how careful you are, there’s always a risk of malware or hardware failure. That’s why I tell every customer — always back up your data. Use an external hard drive or a secure cloud backup service, and make it a habit to back up your files weekly. If something goes wrong, you’ll still have your important photos, documents, and work safely stored.
💬 Need Help Staying Secure?
If your computer has been acting strange, showing pop-ups, or running slower than usual, it might be infected with malware. I can run a full security checkup, remove any hidden threats, and make sure your system is locked down tight.
Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated — it just takes a little consistency and awareness. And if you ever need help, I’m here for you.
— Patrick Jensen Owner, Twin Cities PC Repair Serving the Twin Cities with honest, affordable computer service and support.
Weekly Tech Bytes: Build the Perfect PC for Your Needs: Why Custom is the Smart Choice – 10/6/2025
Buying a new computer can feel overwhelming. With so many models, brands, and configurations available, how do you know which one is truly right for you? Prebuilt systems might seem convenient, but they often include parts or software you don’t need—and leave out the performance you do.
That’s where custom PC building comes in. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we help you design and build a computer tailored exactly to your needs, your budget, and your goals. Whether you’re a gamer, a designer, or a small business owner, a custom-built computer offers unbeatable performance and value.
Why Choose a Custom PC?
A custom PC isn’t just for tech enthusiasts anymore—it’s for anyone who wants more power, flexibility, and control. When you build your own system, every part is chosen for a reason. You decide how much processing power, storage, and memory you really need.
That means no more paying for extras you’ll never use or settling for subpar components. You get exactly what you need—nothing more, nothing less.
For example:
Gamers can prioritize powerful graphics cards and cooling systems.
Designers can choose more RAM and fast SSDs for smoother performance.
Business users can build reliable systems optimized for multitasking and security.
Better Performance, Longer Life
Many prebuilt computers use lower-grade components to cut costs. With a custom-built PC, you choose trusted, high-quality parts designed to last. The result? A system that runs faster, stays cooler, and remains stable under heavy use.
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we carefully balance performance, reliability, and cost. From CPUs and GPUs to power supplies and motherboards, every component we recommend is tested and proven to deliver consistent performance.
Built for Upgrades
One of the biggest advantages of a custom computer is upgradability. Prebuilt systems are often locked down with proprietary parts, making future upgrades difficult. A custom PC, on the other hand, is built with flexibility in mind.
When new technology comes out, you can easily swap in a new graphics card, expand your memory, or add storage without replacing the whole system. That keeps your computer performing like new—year after year.
Expert Help, Local Service
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we make the PC-building process simple. Our experts take the time to understand your needs, explain options in plain language, and help you make smart choices for your system.
We assemble and test every machine before it leaves our shop, ensuring it’s optimized for your specific use. And because we’re local, you always have friendly, face-to-face support whenever you need help or want to upgrade.
Ready to Build Your Perfect PC?
If you’re ready to experience a computer built for you—not the masses—get in touch with Twin Cities PC Repair today. We’ll help you design the perfect setup for gaming, work, or home use—built to perform, built to last.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your custom PC consultation. Let’s build something amazing—together.
This Week at Twin Cities PC Repair: Tips, Tales & Tech Insights – 9/29/2025
Welcome Note
Hello, Twin Cities community! We hope your week has been smooth (at least until your computer gave you headaches). Here at Twin Cities PC Repair, we believe in keeping you informed, empowered, and (fingers crossed) error-free. Below are what’s happening this week, along with a few tips and insights for your tech.
🖥️ Featured Tip of the Week
Back Up Before You Crack (Open the Case, That Is)
One thing we can’t stress enough: always back up your data before doing any hardware changes or repairs. Whether it’s a hard drive swap, SSD upgrade, or cleaning internal components, unexpected failures can happen. Use an external drive, cloud backup, or network storage to keep your photos, documents, and important files safe.
Bonus tip: verify your backup by opening a few files from it occasionally — you don’t want to discover it’s corrupt when you really need it.
🔍 Recent Highlights from the Shop
Client Spotlight – SSD Upgrade for Speed
This week, we upgraded a local small business owner’s aging laptop from a 5400 RPM HDD to a 1TB NVMe SSD. The end result? Boot times dropped from ~60 seconds to ~10 seconds. The client was stunned — “I didn’t know my machine could be this fast,” they said.
Fun (but stressful) Recovery
We had a case where someone accidentally spilled coffee on their desktop. Thankfully, the client shut off the PC immediately, brought it in, and we managed to salvage the motherboard and data. A reminder: always power off and unplug first if liquid gets in.
Network Troubles
A customer’s home WiFi was dropping repeatedly. After diagnostics, we found a failing router and interference from a new neighbor’s network. Swapping to a dual-band mesh system and choosing less crowded channels solved the problem.
💡 Tech Insight of the Week: Why Your PC Slows Over Time
Over months and years, many things accumulate to slow your machine:
Bloatware and unwanted software installed in the background
Fragmented storage (especially on traditional hard drives)
Dust and heat buildup in key components
Outdated drivers or firmware
Operating system updates not optimized
If you’ve noticed your PC dragging lately, come by and we’ll run a “speed-revival” tune-up — cleaning, updates, optimizations, and hardware checks.
✅ Quick Checklist for Your PC This Week
Check your backups — make sure they are working.
Delete programs you no longer need.
Clean dust out of fans, vents, and intakes (when safe and powered off).
Update your OS, drivers, and key software.
Monitor your disk usage; a nearly full drive often slows things down.
Thanks for reading! If you’re in the Twin Cities area and your computer’s acting up, feel free to book a device drop-off or drop by. We’d be happy to help.
Have a great (and glitch-free) week ahead,
Twin Cities PC Repair
Keep Your Computer Running Like New This Fall – 9/26/2025
As the seasons change, so do the demands we place on our technology. Whether you’re running a business, managing school projects, or just staying connected with family and friends, your computer is at the center of it all. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we believe your computer should make your life easier—not harder. That’s why this month, we’re focusing on simple but powerful ways to keep your system in peak condition.
Why Maintenance Matters
Your computer works hard every day. Over time, it collects temporary files, dust, and even minor software issues that can slow things down. Just like you’d take your car in for an oil change, your computer benefits from regular checkups, too. Without maintenance, small issues can snowball into costly repairs—or worse, data loss.
Some common warning signs your computer may need attention:
Sluggish startup or frequent freezing
Unusual error messages or pop-ups
Loud fan noise or overheating
Running out of storage space faster than expected
Unexpected restarts or blue screen errors
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, now is the perfect time to act.
Seasonal Computer Tune-Up
Fall is an excellent reminder to give your devices some extra care. Our Seasonal Computer Tune-Up service includes:
Deep system cleaning: Removing dust from fans and vents to prevent overheating.
Performance optimization: Clearing junk files, updating software, and improving speed.
Virus and malware scan: Ensuring your system stays safe from online threats.
Hardware health check: Testing memory, storage, and other key components.
Backup solutions: Helping you protect photos, documents, and important data.
Think of it as a wellness check for your PC. A tune-up can extend the lifespan of your computer, save you money in the long run, and make your day-to-day use smoother and stress-free.
Security Spotlight: Protect Your Data
Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving. With so much of our lives online, it’s important to stay protected. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we recommend:
Using strong, unique passwords (a password manager can help).
Keeping your operating system and programs up to date.
Installing a trusted antivirus program and running regular scans.
Being cautious with email attachments and links.
If you’re not sure whether your system is secure, bring it to us for a quick check. A small step today can prevent big headaches tomorrow.
Why Choose Twin Cities PC Repair?
We’re not just another tech shop—we’re your local partner for reliable, honest, and affordable computer services. Whether it’s a quick repair, a custom-built PC, or long-term maintenance, our goal is to keep your technology working the way you need it to.
Our technicians are friendly, approachable, and take the time to explain things in plain language. We know that tech problems can be stressful, and we pride ourselves on making the process as smooth and easy as possible.
Special Offer
This month only, mention this newsletter and get 10% off a Seasonal Computer Tune-Up. It’s our way of saying thank you for trusting us with your technology needs.
Final Thoughts
Your computer is one of your most important tools. With a little care and regular maintenance, you can avoid frustration, extend its life, and keep it running like new. Let Twin Cities PC Repair help you take the stress out of tech and keep things running smoothly.
Why Computer Tune-Ups Save You Money (and Headaches) in the Long Run – 9/15/2025 Twin Cities PC Repair Weekly Tech-Tips
When it comes to computers, most people wait until something goes wrong before calling for help. By the time you see the dreaded blue screen, hear grinding noises from the hard drive, or notice your laptop takes five minutes just to start up, the damage is often done—and the repair costs can be much higher than expected.
That’s where regular computer tune-ups come in. Just like cars, computers run better, last longer, and cost less to maintain when they’re serviced on a routine basis. A tune-up isn’t just about cleaning up files; it’s about protecting your investment, keeping your system running smoothly, and avoiding major problems before they happen.
The True Cost of “Waiting Until It Breaks”
Many people think skipping maintenance saves money. In reality, it often does the opposite. Consider this:
A failing hard drive can sometimes be detected early during a routine check. If caught in time, you can back up your data and replace the drive affordably. If not, you could be facing a complete data recovery job—easily hundreds of dollars.
Out-of-date software leaves your computer open to viruses and malware. A tune-up ensures updates are installed, security settings are checked, and your system is protected. Cleaning up after an infection is always more expensive (and stressful) than preventing one.
Overheating and dust buildup inside your machine may not be noticeable right away. Left unchecked, they can permanently damage internal components. A quick cleaning during a tune-up keeps fans running efficiently and avoids costly replacements.
What’s Included in a Computer Tune-Up?
Every computer repair shop has its own process, but a professional tune-up usually includes:
System performance checks and startup optimization
Removal of junk files, bloatware, and hidden background programs
Virus and malware scans with removal if needed
Security and update verification
Hardware inspection, including fans, drives, and memory
Cleaning dust from inside the case or laptop vents
The result? A computer that runs faster, stays more secure, and lasts longer—without the constant frustration of slowdowns and glitches.
Small Investment, Big Savings
Think about it this way: would you rather spend a little now, or a lot later? A tune-up is a small investment compared to the cost of:
Data recovery after a hard drive crash
Malware cleanup from a ransomware attack
Replacing an entire computer sooner than necessary
Even better, regular maintenance extends the life of your machine. Instead of replacing a laptop every 3–4 years, you could comfortably use it for 5–6 years with proper care. That’s hundreds of dollars saved just by taking preventive action.
How We Make It Easy
We know life is busy, which is why we offer maintenance plans and block labor hour packages. That means you don’t have to wait until disaster strikes—you can schedule regular tune-ups at a discounted rate and know your computer is always being looked after.
With prepaid labor blocks, you save money up front and can use the hours for any service you need: tune-ups, virus removal, upgrades, or troubleshooting. It’s flexible, affordable, and ensures your technology is always in top shape.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Your computer is one of the most important tools you use every day. Whether it’s for work, school, or keeping in touch with loved ones, it deserves the same kind of routine care you’d give your car or your health.
A tune-up today can save you from a major repair tomorrow—and give you peace of mind knowing your files, photos, and data are safe.
👉 Click below to schedule your computer tune-up or ask about our block labor hour packages. It’s the easiest way to save money, avoid headaches, and keep your tech running like new.
Book a drop-off, click HERE
Book remote support, click HERE Contact me, click HERE
Your Twin Cities Source for PC Sales, Speed, Safety & Support
1. SSD Upgrade vs. HDD Replacement: Speed, Durability & Energy Efficiency
Speed: SSDs can be up to 100× faster than HDDs, resulting in lightning-fast boot times, application launches, and data access—perfect for both everyday users and professionals.(Kingston Technology Company)
Durability: Solid-state drives are more resilient—no moving parts means less risk of physical failure and quieter operation.(Crucial, Avast)
Energy Efficiency: SSDs consume less power and generate less heat—ideal for laptops and energy-conscious desktops.(Crucial, primetechsupport.com)
HDD Still Useful: Traditional hard drives remain the most cost-effective option for high-capacity storage needs.(Crucial, Avast)
Planning an Upgrade? Consider this thorough migration guide for Windows 11 users—covers backup, cloning, BIOS settings, and verifying success.(IT Pro)
2. Cooling System Failures & Overheating Solutions
Why Overheating Happens: Dust, failing fans, dried-out thermal paste, and inadequate airflow are common offenders.(Avast)
Quick Fixes:
Shut down and let your system rest—sometimes, a cold reboot helps.(Avast)
Use compressed air to clear dust from fans, vents, and heatsinks.(Dr. Phone Fix)
Ensure proper airflow: keep desktops on flat, hard surfaces, laptops elevated and clear of soft surfaces.(Avast, Dr. Phone Fix)
Thermal Paste Tips: Apply a small, rice-grain-sized dot, then gently spread—avoid over-application. Improper application can worsen heat issues.(Instructables, Super User)
When to Call a Pro: If fans won’t spin, noises persist, or overheating continues, Twin Cities PC Repair can perform deep cleaning, fan replacement, and paste reapplication.
3. Data Recovery After a Crash: Best Practices & Tools
Crash Causes: Failures often result from wear and tear, mechanical faults, or logical errors—not necessarily malware or disasters.(Acronis)
DIY Tools:
TestDisk: Great for recovering lost partitions or repairing corrupted tables.(Wikipedia)
PhotoRec: Recovers a wide array of file types without writing to the damaged drive.(Wikipedia)
Other Tools: Try TestDisk and PhotoRec from a separate storage device to avoid overwriting data.(Salvation DATA)
When Professionals Are Needed: If hardware is damaged, or DIY tools fail, professional recovery can significantly improve success chances—especially when data is critical.(The Lab, Fields Data Recovery)
4. Windows 11 Compatibility & TPM 2.0 Support
TPM Requirement: Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) for enhanced security features like BitLocker and Windows Hello.(Microsoft Support, Lifewire)
How to Check:
In Windows Security: go to Settings → Update & Security → Device Security and verify the “Security processor” section.(Microsoft Support)
Or run tpm.msc from Run—check the Specification Version under TPM details.(Microsoft Support, NinjaOne)
Enabling TPM:
Reboot into UEFI/BIOS via Settings → Recovery → Advanced options → UEFI Firmware Settings.
Find TPM options (labels like “PTT”, “fTPM”, “Security Device”) in BIOS and enable. Then reboot and recheck.(Microsoft Support, NinjaOne)
Note: TPM via USB or external devices is not supported by Windows 11.(Microsoft Learn)
Benefits: Even older systems (post-2014) likely have TPM built-in; enabling it strengthens system security and future-proofs your machine.(Lifewire)
Additional Tools: If needed, guides exist to convert MBR to GPT and enable Secure Boot/TPM. Always backup before making firmware changes.(Windows Central)
AI-Capable PCs & Windows 10 Sunset: What It Means for You – 9/3/2025
Get Ready for the AI-Capable PC Revolution
The personal computer market is undergoing a fast-paced transformation—and for Twin Cities PC Repair, this moment holds tremendous opportunity. As AI-capable PCs surge in popularity and Windows 10 support winds down, savvy computer users need trusted experts to guide them through upgrades, services, and AI-ready hardware.
AI-Capable PCs Are Taking Off—Fast
Recent data shows AI-capable PCs are on track to account for 31% of global PC shipments by the end of 2025, poised to nearly double to 55% in 2026—a meteoric rise in just a year. Laptops currently dominate this segment, thanks to their convenience and affordability.
More consumers and businesses are realizing the benefit of having local AI processing power for productivity, content creation, and even cybersecurity. It’s no longer just about speed—it’s about intelligence built directly into the machine.
Windows 10 Support Ends October 2025
Adding fuel to the fire, Microsoft is set to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025. That means no more security updates, patches, or official support.
Many businesses and professionals need new machines now to avoid security risks and ensure continued compatibility with critical applications. This system refresh cycle is driving renewed demand for hardware—and repair services too.
Major Brands Already See Growth
Industry leaders are reaping the rewards. HP recently reported a 6% increase in personal systems revenue, driven by strong uptake of AI-enabled PCs. Dell also raised revenue forecasts, citing demand for both AI-ready laptops and servers.
These signals confirm that AI computing isn’t a passing fad—it’s the direction the entire industry is heading.
What This Means for You (and How We Can Help)
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we’re ready to guide you through this transition. Here’s how we can help:
Upgrade Services in High Demand Bring us your older PC and we’ll assess upgrade paths—whether that’s adding RAM, swapping in a fast SSD, or checking compatibility for Windows 11 and AI features.
Affordable Refurbished Models We offer tested, certified refurbished machines that are AI-ready—perfect if you want performance without breaking the bank.
Smart Stocking of Parts We keep the latest NVMe drives, RAM, and cooling solutions in stock so you don’t wait weeks for your upgrade.
Education & Guidance Confused about what “AI-capable” really means? We’ll explain the difference between CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs in plain language so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Long-Term Outlook: Bright for PC Owners
Analysts forecast 4%+ growth in PC shipments in 2025, spurred by AI adoption, hardware refresh cycles, and hybrid work. Combined with Windows 10’s sunset, this creates a once-in-a-decade chance to upgrade and secure your technology.
For Twin Cities PC Repair, it means more neighbors and businesses coming through our doors for trusted advice. For you, it means peace of mind knowing your systems are secure, powerful, and future-ready.
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