Why your computer is Running Slow & How to Solve It | Prescott, AZ

We tend to utilize our computes a lot. Most of us don’t even realize how long we have had our computers until it starts running slowly or begins to fail. For our computers to keep running quickly and seamlessly, its important to update our software and perform basic maintenance on the hardware along the way.

Here are some ways you can keep your computer up and running smoothly.

Storage Space. This is a major contributor to slow computer speed. It is good practice to always have 200- 500 megabytes of space on the hard drive. This is space that will be used to update applications and software. If you notice your storage availability is less, its time to clean out old files and invest in an exterior hard drive to free space on the laptop itself.

Damaged Hardware. Hardware refers to the physical microchips, fans and other equipment that compose the computer itself. Over time, these components can corrode or burn out if not properly maintained or replaced. Damaged hardware could be making your computer run slowly.

Background Programs. When we start our computers, certain applications are activated and take up our computer’s output without us even realizing it. Discovering which programs these may be and disabling them will help to recover your computer’s efficiency.

Windows and Apple Updates. When your computer asks you to update the system, its because the manufacturer fixed bugs and enhanced the plugins of your system. It is important to keep up with these improvements as it contributes to a smoother operation and enhanced features to keep it that way.

Memory Capacity. The larger your business grows, or the longer you use your computer, the more files you will collect. Be sure to monitor the memory capacity on your computer and choose which files need to be stored to your cloud. If your computer doesn’t have a lot of memory storage, it could start to slow down your system.

For more information about computer optimization, or would like the advice of a professional call the experts at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net today.

4 Tips to Stay Safe on the Internet | Prescott, AZ

There are millions of people uploading pieces of data in the trillions onto the internet all the time. As the internet has expanded, so has the ability to utilize it as a tool with good and bad intent. Its hard to keep up with every development of the internet, and how to keep ourselves and families safe.

Here are a few ways you can avoid getting involved in potential scams and keep your information safe.

Mind your Clicks. Cyber hackers utilize tools such as emails and text messages to pop-ups that work to distract and entice the target. Be cautious when investigating any links to or from unknown sources through email or any kind of instant message service. What may look like a normal link can implant a virus on your computer that can do anything from generate annoying advertisements to stealing private information.

Update Regularly. Updating applications and software on your computer and phone are an easy way to ensure your devices have the latest security features. Regular updates fix any holes in your security, as well as implement code to combat the latest in internet trickery so you can avoid issues all together.

Passwords. Cyber criminals can be quick to discover patterns in your passwords, and create algorithms to uncover them. By keeping passwords varied, it makes it more difficult to learn. Worried you won’t remember them all? We suggest an encrypted excel sheet to store your passwords.

Personally Identifiable Information. Information that identifies you specifically is precious. These are things like your social security number; it is extremely important to keep this information private and only share it with sources you know are legitimate.

Incorporating these tips and tricks will go a long way in protecting you and your family from potentially serious and damaging internet scams and hacks.

For more information about how you may protect yourself online or how IT management may protect your business, call the professionals at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net today.