Network Administration | Corona, CA

When you hire a network administrator, he or she will solve any issues that may arise within the scope of your computer network. Typically, this falls into the scope of installing, configuring and monitoring computer and system functionality to ensure and/or improve the performance of your operating system. These individuals are paramount in ensuring your business activities, on a technological level, are getting done. If your business operations have expanded, it may be time to discuss with this individual how to increase storage capacity. Maybe you have detected a decrease in operating efficiency or noticed a spark emit from the server; these are all indications that your computer’s operating system has been impaired, and your business information is at risk.

Without the full operational capacity of your computer, expanding your business will grind to a halt and at that point, due to several factors, it could be too late. At Up and Running Computer Solutions, we are dedicated the continual maintenance and improvement of your network so you can be dedicated to expanding it.

When It’s time to Call an Expert | Corona, CA

computer repair service

Whether you use your computer for work or just pleasure, when something goes awry, it tends to cause a bit of panic, especially when you aren’t a computer expert. But when is the time to ask for help? For many of us, we are always unsure. But it is important to know that it’s okay not to know what is happening when your computer is on the fritz. So, if you find that your computer is acting funny, keep these tips in mind:

Little problems nearly always become big problems. There are several key things that a casual computer user does on a daily basis that can result in a massive problem down the road.

  • Overuse of cleaning programs and efficiency scanners
  • Refusal to acknowledge error messages
  • Failure to clean out old programs and files
  • Not getting routine maintenance

When you don’t correct these problems immediately, they get worse. Proper care of a computer and routine check ins with an expert are both important to proper health and your wallet.

Be able to relay what’s going on. Proper communication can mean you get your device back faster than if they have to guess what is wrong. Sometimes the simplest act of giving them a call, and describing what is wrong, can ease your mind about what is happening.

Everything expires. Even with steady replacement of bad parts, good care, and a proper use of a computer it will eventually die. Learning how to judge when enough replacing is enough is an art as much as it is a science.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Mythbusters: Computer Repair Edition | Corona, CA

headache over computer problems

There is nothing worse than having a computer on the fritz. We rely on this piece of technology so much that without it, we feel lost. But then we are faced with the question – can you repair it yourself? Unless you’re a computer repair technician, that answer is a no. And it’s likely because there are many myths and misconceptions when it comes to computer repair. So, let’s take a minute to debunk those myths:

Myth #1. My computer technician can fix some problems I’m having with a website.

Unfortunately, no. A technician may be able to tell you why you’re having problems or tweak some setting, but they won’t be able to do much more.

Myth #2. I would know if my computer was infected with a virus, spyware or other malware.

Malicious software is typically designed to run quietly in the background so it can log the keys you press, website you visit, and attempt to steal data and passwords, sending them back to the culprit/hacker.

Myth #3. I found a computer for less than $500, so it’s better to replace my computer than repair it.

Computers that you can buy for $500 or less are typically very low-end, cheaply made machines. They’re usually equipped with low-grade processors, little RAM, small and slow hard drive, and are cheaply built.

Myth #4. I need to be a computer technician to repair every problem I have with my computer.

There are many things that you can do before you have to take your computer to a computer repair technician. Check websites with tutorials and tips about computer repair. It may be something simple.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Staying Virus-Free | Corona, CA

Now that we have been quarantined to our homes, we are using the internet more than ever in order to keep ourselves entertained. Coronavirus has taken over our lives, but there is one more virus we need to keep in mind – the computer virus. Because we are going to be using the internet for things like searching for information, work, shopping, schoolwork and even banking, it is important that we prevent our computers vulnerable to hackers with the personal information held in there. Here are a few tips to lower your risk of contracting a virus:

Anti-virus software. Having an anti-virus program installed is a great benefit for your computer. The ant-virus programs scan for viruses that try to get into your emails, operating system or files. Make sure your anti-virus is set to update automatically for the most protection.

Install a firewall. Firewalls can help alert you of any suspicious activity, while also blocking viruses, hackers or worms from attempting to download malicious programs onto your computer. Some systems have a built-in firewall but are usually shipped in “off” mode, so be sure to turn your firewall on. Make sure to keep your firewall updated regularly.

Pop-up blocker. Avoid clicking on pop-up ads by using a pop-up blocker. Most pop-ups are created by advertisers, but they may contain a harmful or unsafe code.

Use spam filters. Emails can contain computer viruses, so before opening an email, make sure you’re receiving it from a known address or sender.

Strong passwords. Make sure to choose a strong password to protect yourself for potential hackers. Don’t choose something simple as your password; some hackers have a program that can try every single word in the dictionary.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Keep It Clean, Folks | Corona, CA

To say that we need some form of computer to survive these days is almost an absolute truth. Between smartphones, tablets, laptops and PCs, it seems we all have at least one of these products. And not having them easily accessible and running correctly is imperative. Now that we are all on high alert about germs and infections, how often are you cleaning your electronic equipment?

One of the telltale signs that will tell you that it’s time to give your computer some TLC is that it begins to run a lot slower. If it begins to run a lot slower, chances are high that anything can cause a crash. Could you imagine losing everything on your computer because you neglected some simple cleaning tips? Here are some simple tips to keeping your computer equipment clean and running smoothly:

Outer beauty. Let’s face it – we are kind of gross when it comes to our computer stuff. We eat around them and rarely dust our keyboard, mouse, etc. Cleaning your PC’s exterior will improve your computer’s performance. Here’s how: Start by turning the power off. Clean your keyboard using compressed air and a safe cleaning solution. Wipe down your mouse. Then proceed to use the compressed air to clean your actual computer.

And now for the inside… Now that we’ve a spic-and-span exterior, it’s time to clean out the junk we’ve compiled. Here’s how: Start by deleting junk, duplicate files and programs that you no longer use, then reorganize your files, folders and desktop. Lastly, check your PC for adware, viruses and other malicious software that’s slowing your system down.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona and all surrounding areas.

Don’t Let It Be the Death of You | Prescott, AZ

It is something that anyone who works on a computer dreads the most. You’re busy working along when all of a sudden, your screen freezes. And you were in the proverbial zone that saving your work hadn’t happened for quite a while. Oh no! Did you lose all your work? More importantly, will it come back? There is literally nothing like the panic that washes over you when a computer screen freezes and all you see is a blue screen. Did you know that your ultimate computer dread has a name? It does. That blue screen with a list of computer instructions and information is called the Blue Screen of Death. This occurs when Windows crashes or locks. Apropos, isn’t it?

Despite what you think at the time, the reason for this Windows screen is to tell you the reason for the error and to calm you down. Seriously! The color blue has shown to have a calming effect on people, so the blue screen is used to prevent you from freaking out.

As you read the information shown, the error you experienced will be in all capital letters at the top. It will help you or a computer repair technician find the information you need to fix the problem. Also, Windows will take anything it’s holding in system memory and put it in a file and saves it on your hard drive. Calming your nerves yet?

The error and memory file will be researched to find the cause of the system stop and to help repair it. If you experience a Blue Screen of Death and aren’t sure how to fix it yourself, call a computer technician for help.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Prescott Valley and all surrounding areas.

Super SloMo: How to Fix It | Corona, CA

In a day and age where waiting is an annoyance we are unwilling to deal with, having computer issues are a headache we have zero time for. Not only do we live on the internet, but even basic life functions have somehow integrated a computer into it. So, when we have a slow-running machine, it almost feels like a reason to panic.

There are several things that can contribute to your computer slowing down. Bugs in the operating system, failing hardware, or even static electricity from carpet can lead to computer glitches. But before taking your computer in for repair or buying a new PC all together, try out these quick fixes to see it they can get your computer running a bit faster again:

Uninstall unused programs. When buying a new computer, programs that have been pre-installed. Uninstall any programs you don’t use.

Delete temporary files. All your browsing history remains deep in your computer, and the same goes for when you install something. Make sure to get rid of all the clutter to free up space on your system.

Get more storage. If you have too much on your hard drive, it will affect the speed of your computer, especially if you use your computer for things such as recording media or video.

Stop unnecessary reboots. Every time you start up your PC, some programs automatically run in the background. Every application that is running will use your PCs memory and slow it down.

Clean it up. Dust gets sucked in by the cooling fan and can clog the airflow of the computer causing it to overheat and slow down.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your computer issues at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serve Corona and all surrounding areas.

What to Do when Cleaning Your PC | Corona, CA

Is your computer running a bit slower than usual? Have you been putting off cleaning out your files stored on your desktop? Since February is host to National Clean Out Your Computer Day (February 11th), take some time out and dedicate it to your computer. Before your computer has time to take an unexpected turn for the worse, do yourself a favor and start by cleaning it out today. The following list includes a list of the best practices to keep your computer running at its optimal speed:

Clean your PC. We aren’t talking about the guts of your PC, we mean the outer surfaces. Cleaning your PC’s exterior will not only get rid of food particles, dust and hair that have settled in your keyboard, fan, and other components, it will also allow your computers performance. Before you begin, turn the power off. Clean your keyboard with compressed air and a safe cleaning solution. Wipe down your mouse. Then proceed to use the compressed air to clean your actual computer.

Clean out your PC. This is where you clean the innards of your computer’s brain, because software is just as important as its hardware. Delete all junk, duplicate files and programs that you no longer use. Reorganize those files, folders and don’t forget your desktop. Finally, make sure to check your PC for adware, viruses and other malicious software that may be slowing your system down.

If you aren’t sure how to clean your computer, make sure to consult a professional for additional help. Once your computer is cleaned inside out, enjoy its seamless, quick and quiet performance.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with cleaning your computer at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serve Corona and all surrounding areas.

Is It Malware or a Virus? | Corona, CA

headache over computer problems

In a world where it seems everything is getting hacked, it is easy to panic when something goes wrong with your computer equipment. The slightest glitch or stall and we are thinking the worst. And when we think of the worst thing that can happen to this equipment, we will generally think about computer viruses. Yes, the evil computer virus is the original enemy of the typical computer user, and in this day and age, it is impossible to not use some type of computer in our daily lives.

Then you hear about malware and a whole new set of questions and concerns come to mind. Let’s break it down – a virus is just one kind of malware, but the actual term is largely used by the public and the only way to protect yourself is to have some type of an anti-virus. The following are various types of malware designed to infect your computer or mobile device:

Adware. Adware is the least dangerous and most profitable malware. It displays ads on your computer.

Spyware. This software spies on you by tracking your internet activity in order to send adware back to your machine.

Worms. A worm replicates itself and destroys data and files on your computer until the drive is completely empty.

Trojan horse. One of the most dangerous malwares, Trojans are designed to discover your financial information and take over your computer’s system resources.

Ransomware. If you see a screen that warns you that you have been locked out of your computer until you pay for your “cybercrimes”, you have ransomware.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with malware protection at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.

Up & Running Computer Solutions proudly serve Corona and all surrounding areas.

When You Experience a Power Outage | Corona, CA

computer repairWith all of the crazy weather, it is important to think about running your business without thinking about emergency precautionary measures. What will happen if you have a power surge? Do you have the proper backup equipment to keep your company moving if something interrupts the power?

Power outages can be devastating to your computer. Not only can you lose files and any vital information, but your computer itself could bear the brunt of some pretty devastating damages. If this happens to your computer, the first move is to seek immediate computer repair. They will be the best at trying to salvage anything that may become lost. But there is something you can do that can keep your computer stable through a power surge – a UPS, or uninterruptible power supply.

A UPS is a battery-containing device that supplies backup power to your computer in case of a power outage, as well as brown outs and electricity spikes. The battery will keep your computer running temporarily during a power surge, giving you the time to save your work and shut down your computer properly without losing data. Not only will this save important documents, but money from costly computer repair.

The UPS will come with power management software that can be configured to sense an outage and safely shut your computer down in the event you are not in front of your computer at the time. You can also set your computer to come back on when power is restored.

It is important to think about emergency plans when you start a business. Not only for your assets, but for your office equipment.

Call Up & Running Computer Solutions in Corona, CA for help with your backup equipment at 951-737-8558. Learn more at our website at www.urcs.net.