What Are the Most Common Computer Network Issues? | Corona, CA

When the time comes for your company to grow, you will need to invest in a computer networking system. This way, everyone can connect to the same files and communicate at optimum levels. Unfortunately, it isn’t the easiest thing to get this system up and running. A network is a complex with loads of moving pieces. And because so many components make your business run smoothly, these issues need to be remedied as soon as possible. Here are some of the more common issues you may face. Getting familiar with clues to watch out for will help get everything back up quickly and efficiently…

Slow connection. Is there anything worse? Many times, files are the culprit in these instances. Limit the file size to less than 20mb. If your network cards are faulty, this will slow down things, so make sure you become familiar with this option as well.

IP conflicts. As a general rule of thumb, each PC should have their own IP address. If duplication happens, try restarting the router.

Printer issues. When lots of computers use the same printer, there may be a time where the printer won’t allow a PC to connect. Check the firewall settings and network adaptors.

Bad cables. Let’s face it. Cables get messed up over time. Connections get loose or damaged, and this could cause issues within the network. Make sure to schedule maintenance for all of your wiring and cables as well as the PCs themselves.

Wifi signal issues. Weak wifi signals can definitely drag production. It could be the layout of the office or something blocking your signal. If that isn’t the issue, make sure your firmware is up to date.

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.

Online Shopping in a COVID-19 World | Corona, CA

Online Security Protection Internet Safety

Let’s face it – 2020 has been a wild year and on that has us relying on the internet to take care of our families. Whether we are working from home or ordering groceries, being online is a way of life. And this is why it is more important than ever for us to protect ourselves from online hackers and identity theft. Make sure that you have all your security measures in place. The holiday season is a time where cybercriminals are still very much at large, so let’s start this new year safer than ever. The following tips are recommended while you’re doing your shopping online:

An amazing deal. One common tactic that cybercriminals like to use is using very low prices on popular items to lure potential victims in.

Credit over debit. Use your credit card instead of your debit card because if your credit is used for something that you didn’t purchase, it’s easier to resolve issues with your credit card company than with your bank.

Stay alert. Take advantage of your credit card alert features. These instant alerts can alert you when there’s abnormal activity so you can get issues resolved immediately.

Safe apps. For safe online shopping through apps, you must make sure they are downloaded from a trusted source, like the Apple store or Android market. Be sure to read through the various permissions the app is asking you to grant.

Update security features. Keep your cyber information safe by ensuring that all of your security software is updated. Once an update is available, cybercriminals have all the information they need to attack your device.

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 Yourself Secure from Hackers | Corona, CA

Data Breach

During this election season, you hear all about other countries hacking our elections and trying to rig it every which way. It has all of us on edge, because even our social media accounts can get compromised. Since October 2004, the National Cyber Security Division within the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Alliance has sponsored National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month is focused on encouraging individuals to be cautious and to use protection while accessing the internet. Let’s face it – the internet impacts our lives on a daily basis. We use the internet to connect with family and friends, to handle business and banking online and rely on it for many other services, like electricity and even transportation, which are supported by online systems. Technology has prompted advancements in life as we know it.

And while technology does help our lives, it also makes us more vulnerable to risks of theft, fraud and abuse. No one is immune to cyber risks at this point. As individuals, cybersecurity risks can threaten our identities, finances and privacy. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep yourself, your assets and personal information safe online:

  • Create strong passwords and do not share them with anyone.
  • Keep operating system, browser and other critical software’s up to date by installing updates.
  • Raise awareness by talking openly with your family, friends and community about internet safety.
  • Limit the amount of personal information you share online and use privacy setting to avoid sharing information widely
  • Be very cautious about what you receive or read online.

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.

Windows 10: Working from Home | Corona, CA

Now that many of us are adjusting to the new way of doing business, we are looking for quick new ways to streamline our schedules in the easiest way possible. And while Windows 10 has been available for a while, many of us haven’t really explored its features – features that can make juggling work, home-schooling and family a bit easier during these challenging times.

Task scheduler. Type ‘task scheduler’ in the search box and follow the instructions to add necessary tasks.

Microsoft defender. Windows antivirus protection is better than it’s ever been before, so for many of us, a third-party company isn’t necessary. But if you host or communicate sensitive, business data, you may want more protection.

Lost disk space. All you have to do is type ‘disk clean-up’ in the search bar and a new Windows utility will pop up showing you all the files you can get rid of and it’s a simple one-click to Clean Up System Files.

Computer stickies. Are you a note taker? Do you have notes scattered everywhere? Now there are stickies you can post on your desktop, keeping every reminder in one place. Just type ‘sticky’.

Remote assistance. With the new Windows 10 you can even get assistance without downloading any additional tools from technical assistance by simply typing ‘remote assistance’.

Print to PDF. No reason to download a third-party PDF maker. Microsoft now has “Print to PDF” as an option.

Screen activity recordings. A big step for Windows 10 that many people were waiting for was the ability to record your screen and activity.

Document search. If you’ve ever forgotten the title of a document? Now documents and Office documents to be completely searched including the entirety of the document’s contents.

Reminders. Windows 10 made their new reminders much more detailed so you can save images to them, more details, and even add them from a locked screen to make it easier for you to stay on task.

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.

Which Type of Network Is Best? | Corona, CA

Which Type of Wireless Network Is Best?

When it is time to start up a small business, it is important to make the right choices for your company. This includes your wireless network. Some may think all networks are the same, but that isn’t true and choosing the correct one for your needs will not only keep things easy to maintain but can also plan for future expansion.

At Up and Running, we can help you choose the best wireless network for you, and help you manage the one that you choose. You will have three options – centralized deployment, converged deployment or cloud-based deployment. Here is a quick breakdown of each to give you a basic idea:

Centralized deployment. If you have a cluster of buildings or networks close by, centralized deployment will make upgrades easier and can handle advanced wireless functionality by consolidating the wireless networks because controllers are installed in a centralized location.

Converged deployment. For those companies with branch offices, your network may work best by using an access switch. This will increase wireless consistency and connects wireless and wired devices together. It is a basic mixture of centralized and converged deployments.

Cloud-based deployment. We all have used a cloud in way or another and this deployment is no different for businesses – dashboards are used to manage all of the network devices. Because the cloud is used, devices can be used at various locations, but still visible by anyone with access to the dashboard.

Once you have your network set up, we can offer a managed services program that can not only give you peace of mind about future complications, but will allow you to achieve the successful business you’re looking for.

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.

Shop Online the Safe Way | Corona, CA

Thanks to technology people can now shop from the convenience of their homes to coffee shops just by using a smart phone, tablet or other mobile device. Not only can online shopping save you time, but it can also save you from encountering crowds of people fighting over sale items or during busy shopping seasons. If you choose to do your shopping online, make sure that you have all your security measures in place. The holiday season is a time where cyber criminals are still very much at large, but these rules of thumb can be used year-round. Take care of yourself out there with these simple tips:

Too good? Probably is. One common tactic a cybercriminal will use is to use very low prices on popular items to lure potential victims in. Don’t fall victim over an extraordinary deal.

Credit over debit. When checking out, use your credit card instead of your debit card. It’s easier to clear up any issues regarding purchases you didn’t make.

Get alerted. Take advantage of your credit card alert features. These sorts of alerts can alarm you when there’s abnormal activity and is very useful to instantly find out about fraudulent activity.

Use safe apps. For safe online shopping through apps you must make sure there are downloaded from a trusted source, such as the Apple Store or Android Market. Be sure to read through the various permissions the app is asking you to grant and note weather they make sense.

Stay current. Keep your cyber information safe by ensuring that all of your security software is updated. Once an update is available, cyber criminals have all the information they need to attack your device.

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.

The ABCs of Malware | Corona, CA

Virus Alert

In the day and age that revolves around the internet, it is important that we make sure to protect ourselves from anything that can affect our way to stay in touch online. That is why it is very important to know the difference between the things harming your computer. You may have heard of the term virus, but a virus is just the common term for a bigger threat – malware. The term “malware” refers to any type of malicious software that’s designed to infect your computer or mobile device, including a computer virus and is designed to specifically hard and infect host systems. Let’s break them all down:

Virus. This is a contagious program that attaches itself to another piece of software, and then progresses to reproduce itself when the software is running.

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

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

Worms. This is a program that replicates itself and destroys data and files on your computer. Worms are designed to “eat” the system operating files and data till the drive is completely empty.

Trojan horse. The most dangerous, Trojans are designed to discover your financial information and take over your computers 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. Even if you do pay to unlock your system, you are not free from of it locking you out again.

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.

Don’t Panic: Computer Issues Edition | Corona, CA

computer repair service

We can’t function these days without a computer. From shopping to social media, it seems everything we do has an online option. So, when our computers break down, there is always reason to panic. After all, how are we going to keep up with our timelines when our laptop is glitching? Don’t panic – there are things that can be done to fix your machine. But it is a good idea to know what is going on when a computer breaks, so we don’t fret and do something rash. So, here is a listing of the five more common issues your computer may face:

Computer won’t turn on. Nothing is more frightening than a computer that doesn’t turn on, and unfortunately it could be caused by number of things ranging from a loose cord, or a power supply going bad.

Slow computer. When you delete files and applications from your computer, they’re still on your computer taking up space. Low hard drive space or not enough RAM are also reasons your computer has slowed.

Odd noises. A dying fan or a failing hard drive can be a reason your computer may be making noise. A fan is an easy fix; you can back up your information from your hard drive before it fails, or with the use of a recovery software.

Overheating. Overheating can cause all sorts of computers problems caused by poor ventilation, dying fans or even excessive use of the computer.

Freezes. The “blue screen of death” is when your PC freezes in a blue screen with an error message caused by overheating, hard drive failure or a buggy software.

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.