Now that many Americans are working from home, we rely on our home computers more than ever. It may seem that as the world of information moves faster, your laptop’s performance seems slower than ever. You may be noticing that processing tasks take seconds or even minutes longer than they once did. What can you… Read more »
In today’s world of prolific online hackers, we all need to exercise due diligence to protect our personal information. The last few years have seen several massive hacks, including the Equifax data breach announced in September 2017. What can you do to protect yourself from hackers? And if your information was taken from Equifax several… Read more »
The COVID-19 pandemic has provided cybercriminals a new way to scam people. Phishing e-mails that target those fearful of the coronavirus are appearing in consumer in-boxes worldwide, as are appeals from phony charities preying on people’s good intentions. Here’s what you need to know about coronavirus cyber scams. Types of coronavirus cyber scams Scammers send… Read more »
We tend to think of new kitchen counters or a bathroom makeover when we talk about home improvement. But nowadays the term also means acquiring smart home devices that make life simpler and free up our time. Here are six very cool tech tools that can lighten your daily load. Smart hub systems Smart home… Read more »
Use of virtual meeting platforms has exploded since the coronavirus pandemic began. Businesses, organizations and families are using video conferencing to connect with one another without leaving their homes. Here’s a tutorial on video conferencing best practices to help you get the most out of these platforms and avoid security breaches. Features of video conferencing… Read more »
You might think that smart home technology is only for control of indoor devices, like thermostats, home theaters and security systems. But high tech has come to the backyard. Let’s talk about some of the outdoor smart home technology now available. High-tech grilling Outdoor smart home technology is revolutionizing the oldest form of cooking. You… Read more »
Advancing technology allows you to send documents wirelessly from your computer to your printer. But that convenience disappears when the wireless printer doesn’t work properly. Before you throw in the towel, try these troubleshooting steps to restore malfunctioning wireless printing. Determining if Wi-Fi is the problem Try simple tests first to diagnose the problem. Because… Read more »
Cyber hacking of consumers’ online data has become so common that strong passwords are now essential. What elements make for a strong password? Here are some simple security tips to protect your personal data from being hacked. The most basic cyber security Passwords are just one aspect of keeping your online personal data safe. You… Read more »
There’s no good time to receive an annoying robocall. Mobile phone carriers have apps to protect users, but how can you repel this scourge on your home’s landline? Let’s build your defenses. It’s a war out there Robocalls are the number one consumer complaint and the top consumer protection focus of the Federal Communications Commission…. Read more »
Half of American households have cut the cord on their landline telephone service, and streaming Internet TV is chipping away at the business of cable and satellite companies. If you’re part of the “cut the cord” movement, you may be left with unsightly wires stuck to the side of your house. Here’s how to clean… Read more »
Television ads targeted to seniors dramatize elders pushing a button on a medical alert device when they’re home alone and have a medical emergency. Are these devices effective? How should you choose between brands? When medical alert devices can help Medical alert devices are particularly helpful for seniors, but anyone of any age who lives… Read more »
Faxing was once a cutting-edge communications technology. Today faxes may seem like a quaint relic from the past, but some people still rely on them. In an age where telephone landlines are disappearing, can you still fax if needed? The answer is yes. Read on to learn how. Newer method, same result Wireless and digital… Read more »
You see ads for air duct cleaning that promise purer home air and more efficient operation of your HVAC. But is air duct cleaning really needed? Let’s see what the experts say. Your system and dust accumulation The air duct system is the series of large tubes that draw new air to a home’s HVAC… Read more »
Properly maintaining your new refrigerator is one way to help keep your family healthy and extend the life of your unit, saving you big money. Keep reading for these essential tips on how to keep your new fridge humming. How often should I clean the inside of my new refrigerator? Ideally, the inside (and outside)… Read more »
When decluttering your home for sale, remember that ancient desktop computer has got to go. But where? With new and changing restrictions on electronics recycling and disposal, here are a few ideas about how to responsibly get rid of electronic waste before listing your home. What’s at stake? In 2016, 44.7 million tons of electronic… Read more »
Most people today are trying to eliminate paper clutter from their lives. So is it really necessary to keep instruction manuals for your new home’s appliances and other products? Let’s read up on cutting down the number of appliance manuals around your new house. Why keep appliance manuals? Sometimes it makes sense to keep paper… Read more »
Inkjet printers are a common choice for home printing, but laser printers that serve the more demanding business market are also big sellers for home use. Which is the printer for you? What type of printer do you need? The best printer for your home depends on your printing needs and the relative cost of… Read more »
When you buy a new computer, you may plan to sell, donate or recycle your old one. But you’ve got sensitive passwords and account information on the hard drive you’re getting rid of. Before you let go of your old computer, take these vital steps to remove your personal data. Deleting files isn’t enough The… Read more »
A safe room in your home could save your life and those of your loved ones in the event of extreme weather or a natural disaster. What is a safe room, and how can it protect you? Scenarios to consider Safe rooms provide maximum protection when tornadoes or hurricanes strike. Because there is usually plenty… Read more »
Working from home usually requires a laptop computer for portability and productivity. But it doesn’t take long before skin oils, dust, hair and gigabytes of bacteria build up on the device’s exterior, inside the keyboard and on your mouse. Let’s keep your laptop clean and protected during the coronavirus outbreak. What you’ll need To clean… Read more »
