Tag: Antivirus Software

Which Computer is Right For You? | Prescott, AZ

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When purchasing a new computer for your home or office, it is important to understand the ways each option may work to better support your needs. With so many options on the market from different providers, we understand it can be a confusing, and sometimes frustrating process to find what is right for you.

We have compiled some of the most common questions we receive regarding computer compatibility to share with you. Of course, this is not a complete list of considerations, but we feel it can help guide you in the right direction.

Processing Power. Commonly referred to as CPU, the processor gives the computer instructions for how to complete a task. There are a lot of processor options for Windows, and Mac computers are being updated with every version. Consider what you are using your computer for; high intensity processors are great for gaming, whereas common processors will allow you to complete your daily tasks.

RAM. This refers to the computer’s memory, or how much you can do at once. Most of us can get away with 8GB of memory to support our daily usage needs. If you utilize your system for video editing or gaming however, you may want to consider a 16GB option, as it will allow you to work more efficiently.

Hard Drive. Your hard drive storage is an important factor for a computer. This is where all your digital content will be stored. While you will have a certain amount of hard drive space on your computer, hard drives can be internally upgraded or externally added, allowing you more storage options as your enterprise grows.

Software. While hardware refers to the physical components of your computer, software comprises all the programs and procedures. Software allows your computer to open and run search engines and remembers your computer preferences. It is important to operate on the latest software updates to maintain computer health.

Graphics. Depending on what you seek to accomplish on your computer, there are two different options for graphics: AMD and NVIDIA. AMD is a great option for gaming, where as NVIDIA works well with Adobe programs.

Still need help deciding which computer configurations are right for you? Call the team at Up and Running Computer Solutions at 951.737.8558 or visit us online at www.urcs.net to consult with a team member today!

Keep Yourself Secure from Hackers | Corona, CA

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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.

Staying Virus-Free | Corona, CA

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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

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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.

5 Common Myths About Computer Viruses and Antivirus Software

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Nearly every office job requires the use of a computer, and while most people know how to operate one, they become lost when it comes to viruses and antivirus software.

However, this may be because there are several myths, misconceptions, and downright lies about virus and antivirus software that have thrown people off for years.

We here at Up and Running Computer Solutions have compiled a list of the most common myths and misconceptions about virus and antivirus software:

Myth #1: Error messages mean you have a virus.

People typically assume their computer has a virus when error messages begin to pop-up on their computer screen. That’s not always the case though, error messages can be caused by other computer problems such as a faulty hard drive, bugs in the software or even problems with your antivirus software. The same applies when your computer crashes, it’s likely caused by something other than a virus.

If you are getting error messages don’t go from A to Z, try checking for any updates and cleaning your hard drive up to see if it helps. You can also scan your computer just to be sure that your computer isn’t infected with a virus.

Myth #2: Computers can infect themselves with a virus.

As silly as that sounds, many believe this myth. It’s not uncommon for clients to bring in their computers claiming that a virus magically appeared on their system all on its own. However, viruses don’t magically appear on computers, users must physically open an infected program, or visit a website that hosts an actual virus and download it.

The best way to decrease the chances of your computer becoming infected with a virus is to avoid websites that contain illegal or “adult’ content. Although other websites can be just as capable of hosting a viruses as well, so be cautious when sketchy sites offer free downloads.

Myth #3: Every antivirus software is the same.

While many people know how to operate computers, they are often confused when it comes to the antivirus software. They want to protect their computer, but only download free antivirus software or keep the one that comes preinstalled on their new computer. Most of the free antivirus software only protect against known threats though.

The free antivirus software doesn’t always protect against scan social media walls, phishing attacks or offer any mobile protection, and if your computer does get a virus, it may be very difficult to remove. There are even paid program that vary in their protection capabilities, so be sure to do your research and install an antivirus that best suits how you use your computer.

Myth #4: All computer viruses are the same.

This completely untrue. There are some viruses or malware that allow hackers to steal information. Some spread advertisements or spam, while others are much more atrocious, destroying your entire operating system, leaving it useless.

There are new virus that released all of the time, and they are all different. The best thing you can do is to be aware, follow the best security practices, and use an effective antivirus software to protect yourself and your computer.

Myth #5: Firewalls protect against computer viruses.

Wrong again, a fire wall is not an antivirus software. Firewalls manage traffic traveling over a network, but they do not protect again viruses, malware or Trojans. A firewall is a part of a smart security plan, and you should have one, especially if you use public networks. However, as mentioned, it will not protect your machine from getting infected.

Whether you need a virus removed or worried about your network security, Up and Running Computers Solutions is the place to call. Give us a call at 951-737-8558 and our experienced team will be happy to help get your machine back up and running. Or visit www.urce.net for information regarding our services.

Up and Running Computer Solutions proudly serves Corona, Riverside, Anaheim, Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin and all surrounding areas.