Herron’s Computer Care

We made a switch to Vonage over the last week and we’re able to take calls once again. I apologize to anyone who was inconvenienced as a result of the outage. This is my first personal experience with VoIP and I’m excited about the possibilities and available features. As time goes on I’ll provide some performance reports.

I apologize to anyone who has tried to call over the last week or so. I’ve been having some trouble with the phone company and the result has been no available incoming line for calls. I’ve nearly got the problem corrected however I highly encourage you to either email me or use the contact form here on the site until it’s completely fixed.

9 Ways to Increase the Security of Your Laptop While on the Road

Microsoft posted this nice little article on safe traveling with a laptop.  There are some really good ideas here…

When is it time to get a new computer?  I’ve certainly been asked this question a number of times over the years but it’s not always that simple of an answer.  My general response is that as long as the computer is still completing the task that you need it to do then why get another one.  At this moment I have a number of computers running on my network that are far below standards for modern software however they perform the task that I need them to do, generally without fail.

The phrase to describe this is repurposing, assigning the computer to a task it can handle but still be useful.  Many people already do this when they buy themselves a new computer and pass the old one to the kids.  It’s nice because you continue to reap benefit from the machine and therefore the computer doesn’t end up being tossed into the trash headed for the landfill.

However, there does come a time when the fact stands…the computer is just too old and obsolete to complete the task you need it to do.  This is the time to buy yourself a new one and donate or recycle the old one.  Computers change so fast that you can never keep up with the technology so this is the standard I use in upgrading my systems.

Outside of the somewhat routine “do you think my computer could have a virus” question, the next most frequent question I’m asked is in regard to parental control software. There are a number of options currently in the market but my recommendation is always Safe Eyes.

It’s easily installed, relatively transparent to the user, and provides every feature most parents look for in a product to protect their children.

1. Content controls allow parents to select the types of websites that are appropriate.
2. Program control over Instant Messengers, Peer-to-peer File Sharing, and other programs.
3. Time controls to limit the amount of time spent online and the times when the Internet is available.
4. Usage logging to review websites visited, programs used on the Internet, and Instant Messaging Chats.
5. Usage alerts to notify instantly via email, text message, or phone call when someone visits inappropriate websites.

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Great features at a great price.  To order, click the link above or the Safe Eyes graphic located in the column to the right.

RadioShack – Do Stuff.  Radio Shack has now started an electronics trade-in program similar to to the one I mentioned a few weeks back sponsored by Best-Buy.  You may not get a whole lot of cash out of your old devices but this concept keeps your old electronics out of the landfill.

We now offer licenses for Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware. This is an outstanding anti-malware application that compliments any anti-virus product in keeping your computer free from malicious software. The free version is great in it’s own right, but the licensed version adds realtime protection, scheduled scanning and updating, and much greater peace of mind. Click the “Buy Now” button in the column to the right and we’ll provide you with your licensing information within 24 hours.

We’ve recently added remote support capability to our list of services through the use of GoToAssist. We now have the ability to correct a number of software and configuration issues at your site via the Internet which reduces the time and cost for your repair.

BestBuy.com Trade-in Center – Powered by Dealtree.com.  Don’t expect to get much for your old electronics but a little cash might be better than nothing…especially if you were planning to send it to the trash…

Recycling.  Before you throw your old electronic junk in the trash consider dropping it by Best Buy instead.  It’s a much better idea than sending it to the landfill.  Even items like batteries…